Use-of-Force Continuum: Connecticut Training Requirements

View Use-of-Force: Connecticut Statutory Definitions here.

Training

Citation

First enacted Oct. 1, 2015

Effective date Jul. 31, 2020

Summary and Notes

All training programs for police officers within the state are required to include training regarding the use of physical force.

Relevant Excerpt

Each police basic or review training program conducted or administered by the Division of State Police . . . or a municipal police department in the state shall include tactical training for police officers regarding the use of physical force . . . .

General Notice 20-04, State of Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, Police Officer Standards and Training Council (June 12, 2020)

First enacted Jan. 1, 2019

Effective date Jun. 11, 2020

Law enforcement units are required to adopt a use of force policy according to minimum standards and practices established by the Connecticut Compliance to Law Enforcement Standards and Practices (CLESP) Program. These minimum standards and practices include a guideline that officers deploy de-escalation strategies and verbal warnings prior to using force, when feasible.

(16) The agency has a policy concerning the use of force including deadly force that complies with current state and federal law. The use of force policy must explicitly address a law enforcement officer's duty to intervene and report unreasonable, excessive, and/or illegal use of force. The policy shall include the following provisions:
. . .

(b) A requirement that officers deploy de-escalation/calming strategies and/or verbal warnings prior to the use of force when feasible; . . .

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