Establish Communication Protocol for Demonstrations
In the instance of spontaneous demonstration:Initial law enforcement response shall be as minimal as safety permits, to assess the situation, attempt to identify a “leader” and to initiate communication (if safety permits.) Law enforcement shall designate a liaison and/or tactical command person to communicate with the leader or demonstrators’ designated points of contact and ensure lines of communication are…
Develop a Comprehensive Demonstration Response Plan
Direct County and City Governments across the state to differentiate emergency and demonstration approaches by consulting with community members, community organizers and law enforcement officials to design a publicly available Demonstration Response Plan that:First prioritizes the preservation of human life and adheres to the principles of community policing, guardianship, and the protection of human and constitutional rights (Adapted from Rules of…
Handle Serious Incidents Swiftly, Openly, and Neutrally
When serious incidents occur, including those involving alleged police misconduct and those that have the potential to damage community trust or confidence in the agency, agencies shall communicate with citizens and the media swiftly, openly, and neutrally, respecting areas where the law requires confidentiality. Policies should state what types of information will be released, when,…
Create Task Forces for Short-Term Investigation of Use of Force
In the interim (until the previous call is adopted), each major police force shall create a task force of diverse and experienced investigators to investigate all cases of police use of force resulting in death, officer-involved shootings resulting in injury or death, or in-custody deaths.1 These law enforcement agencies should then enter into agreements to…
Assign Missouri Highway Patrol to Investigate Use of Force
The Missouri Highway Patrol shall be the default agency to create a task force with the requisite training and expertise that would be responsible for leading the criminal investigation in all cases of police use of force resulting in death, officer-involved shootings resulting in injury or death, or in-custody deaths. In cases where the Missouri…
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