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An Assessment of Deadly Force in the Philadelphia Police Department

Abstract: Using the Collaborative Reform Initiative, law enforcement agencies receive technical assistance through an analysis of policies, practices, training, and tactics around specific issues. This ensures agencies' practices are constitutionally based and respectful to the community. Through Collaborative Reform, individuals' rights are protected, officers' safety is assured, and communities are served properly. Police use of deadly force is a defining issue of our criminal justice system. The Philadelphia Police Department faced increased use of force and a fractured relationship with community stakeholders. This initiative aimed to - enhance training related to officer and public safety in deadly force situations; - improve the quality and transparency of deadly force investigations from both criminal and administrative standpoints; - strengthen the use of force review process; - institutionalize organizational learning processes and practices related to deadly force incidents. All of the efforts of this reform were also meant to help build trust between the PPD and the community.

Product ID: COPS-W0753
Publication Date: 03/23/2015
Author(s): George Fachner, Steven Carter

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