NCJ Number
149858
Date Published
1994
Length
17 pages
Annotation
The author defines what is meant by police use of excessive force, examines some of the limitations inherent in external controls, and explores the potential for controlling excessive police force by internal means.
Abstract
Police officers have the authority to use force in situations where it is necessary for self-defense, to lawfully arrest a suspect, or to prevent criminal activity. Excessive force is defined as exceeding the minimum amount needed to achieve a given objective. National data on the incidence of excessive police force are lacking, and the problem likely varies by police department. Several institutional mechanisms have been proposed to control excessive police force. External controls include criminal prosecution, civil litigation, civilian review boards, and municipal control. Internal police department controls may be more appropriate than external controls but require a firm commitment by police management that misconduct and brutality will not be tolerated. In addition, police recruits must be properly trained in how to deal with incidents in a manner that defuses the potential for violence. Proper supervision and discipline are also essential if excessive police force is to be prevented. The experiences of two cities, Los Angeles and Kansas City (Missouri), in implementing internal controls over excessive police force are reported. 27 references and 1 note