Policing group says officers must change how and when they use physical force

The Police Executive Research Forum has called for changes in how U.S. police officers use physical force, particularly when dealing with individuals in medical, mental, or drug crises. The recommendations come in response to an investigation by the Associated Press that found over 1,000 deaths occurred when officers used force meant to subdue rather than kill. The report emphasizes that individuals in crisis should be treated as patients, not suspects, and urges better coordination with medical responders, improved de-escalation tactics, and adherence to long-standing safety warnings, such as limiting prone restraints.

The report also advises police departments to avoid influencing medics on sedative use, a practice linked to fatalities in some cases. These guidelines aim to reduce preventable deaths, especially among vulnerable individuals, while holding police accountable for their actions.

Source: AP News