Sort of changes the lens through which the whole thing is viewed, eh? This was an approved restraint technique by the city, but no news reports it.
No , different municipalities use different techniques, restraints, etc. For example, some depts use expandable batons, some use the classic P24 baton, some use the wooden truncheon from the 60s...and even some places use police nunchucks. Same goes with service weapons, uniform, etc....
With that being said, just because something is taught doesnt make it legal...even if I was showed this technique during my training, I wouldn't use it.....all the more reason for this to be overturned.