Use of force policy revised to enhance accountability: Officers now have 'less lethal' options

A major revision of the Chicago Police Department's use of force policy was introduced by Supt. Terry G. Hillard late Tuesday, citing enhanced accountability for the ongoing safety of citizens and officers as the key reasons.

The key revisions, which will be implemented next week include: The introduction of a new report to be completed by officers involved in use of force incidents; and the addition of "less lethal" technology in the form of tasers in cases warranting the immobilization of arrestees.

Speaking at a press conference at the department's training academy, Hillard said "Our top priority will always be to treat all citizens with respect and dignity."

Hillard went on to say that police work is an "ever-evolving profession. It presents new challenges to us every day. That's why it is our obligation to constantly review and revise our procedures.

"These changes will make us more accountable. They will also enhance the safety of our officers and our citizens."

Just over a year ago, Hillard appointed an internal committee to conduct a top-to-bottom review of the department's use of force policy. The review determined that officers needed additional options in determining how and when appropriate force can be applied.

The panel also determined that implementing additional accountability measures would better serve the department and the public.

To complete the review, the committee explored best practices from other major police departments, examined changes in the law, consulted with academic and law enforcement experts and researched available tools that would give officers additional less-lethal options in applying force.

Hillard went on to say: "The appropriate application of force is perhaps the greatest challenge officers face on a day-to-day basis. No two accidents are alike. No two offenders are alike.

But no matter the situation," Hillard said, "officers must make sure that force is used effectively, but not excessively. That is often a very fine line to walk.

Officers in the city's 25 police districts will receive General Order 02-08 entitled "Use of Force Guidelines," which will become effective Oct. 1. The revised order states the department's policy regarding the use of force, provides guidelines for the use of force and introduces the Tactical Response Report.

The report will be completed by an officer when force is used or resistance encountered. The revised statutes means that Watch Commanders will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive review of the incident to ensure proper use of force was used.

Included in the revision, Supt. Hillard also authorizes use of less-lethal technology including tasers. The taser is a devise used to control or subdue an assailant through the use of electric impulses.

Hillard said tasers will be deployed on a geographic basis early next year. No officer will carry the weapon until he/she has received thorough training on operating the device.

Officers are also restricted from firing warning shots, firing over crowds, firing at a subject whose only threat is him/herself and firing into vehicles unless it is to prevent great bodily harm or death.

Hillard concluded his conference by saying: "Arrests are not pleasant situations. They sometimes involve offenders who will do everything in their power to defeat an arrest.

"That is why the appropriate use of force is a necessary element of keeping our neighborhoods safe."