The Milwaukee Police Department implements changes for improved police reform

On Thursday, December 10, 2020, the Fire and Police Commission approved updates to the Milwaukee Police Department’s Use of Force Standard Operating Procedure (SOP 460). These changes reflect months of positive discussions, debates and consideration of how the Milwaukee Police Department can enact police reforms consistent with our community’s expectations.

The changes include documenting our de-escalation tactics, banning chokeholds and prohibiting shooting at a moving vehicle (except in life-preserving situations), formally banning the use Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) for peaceful demonstrations, requiring officers to render medical attention if someone asserts “I can’t breathe” or a similar statement, and creating a use of force report whenever an officer points a firearm at a person.

Notably, the Milwaukee Police Department can proudly claim its Use of Force policy is now consistent with the nationally recognized “8 Can’t Wait” campaign. We are grateful for the community’s feedback and remain a committed partner to making real and long-lasting improvements.

Click on link to see the updated version of SOP 460:

https://city.milwaukee.gov/ImageLibrary/Groups/mpdAuthors/SOP/460-USEOFFORCE.pdf

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.