Whenever possible, a non-commissioned member should seek guidance on how to handle a possibly violent situation from their chain of command prior to taking any action. The goal should be the avoidance of violence. Where a member of the public becomes hostile or a situation develops which could become violent, a non-commissioned member should attempt to contact commissioned personnel or other police personnel rather than making an attempt to eject or otherwise confront the aggressor. Physical force should be the final resort and shall only be used against a member of the public if immediately necessary to avoid imminent harm of the Department member or other persons. Commissioned members come in contact with abusive, threatening and violent members of the public as part of their normal duties as peace officers.
Training is provided in the proper use of force to all commissioned personnel.
Commissioned personnel at all times shall be in compliance with the federal and state laws applicable to the use of force by peace officers in the commission of their duties. 15.03 Reporting Requirements. A Department member who witnesses or has knowledge of any threats, threatening behavior or acts of violence by Department members shall report such incidents to their supervisor. Members are responsible for making this report regardless of the relationship between the individual who initiated the hostile behavior and the person or persons who were abused, threatened or attacked. A commissioned member complies with this section by including the information in an offense report.