Imperial riot troopers, also referred to as riot control stormtroopers, stormtrooper chargers, or simply riot troopers, were a specialized type of Imperial stormtrooper. They functioned as a security force, with the specific mission of quelling disturbances and apprehending insurgents involved in disruptive actions.
Throughout the Galactic Civil War, riot control stormtroopers actively participated in various operations. During the period of 5 BBY to 4 BBY, the Spectres, a rebel cell from Lothal opposing the rule of the Galactic Empire, engaged in training exercises against these troopers. They utilized charging droids equipped with stun batons within a cave located at Haven, their secret base on Lothal.
Dexter Jettster expressed concern following the demise of Emperor Palpatine. He feared that citizens of Coruscant might face mass attacks by Riot Troopers as retribution for celebrating the Emperor's death and for their raids on the Imperial Palace.
In 5 ABY, riot control troopers were among the forces present on Takodana during Han Solo's attempt to extract Ralsius Paldora. Additionally, some were aboard the Eviscerator during the Battle of Jakku, when Iden Versio deliberately crashed her X-wing into the vessel in an effort to locate her father, Garrick Versio.
The standard stormtrooper armor was worn by riot control stormtroopers, and they were equipped with either batons or electrostaffs as their primary weapons.