Acting Nassau Police Commissioner Thomas Krumpter outlined a new 'use of force' policy Tuesday designed to reduce suspect injuries and deaths.

Starting this Friday, Krumpter says there will be 15 changes to the policy that urge officers to use de-escalation methods instead of physical force.

Under the new guidelines, officers will no longer be able to use a hand-held piece of lead covered in leather called the slapper. The carotid restraint - a form of chokehold - may only be used if deadly force is being used against an officer or civilian.

Officials say the new policy encourages the use of intermediate weapons, such as Mace and Tasers.

"De-escalation isn't suggesting to our police officers not to use force where appropriate," says Krumpter. "But they should take steps to de-escalate the situation to avoid the use of force."

Nassau PBA President James Carver has criticized the new policy, saying "every second we fail to act possibly can put us in danger."

He also says that not every officer has access to a Taser.

"Everyone on the street doesn't have a Taser, only the ones who have graduated the academy in the last couple of years," he says.

Krumpter says up to 1,800 Tasers will be rolled out for officers by the end of the year.