Police forces around the country hire consultant firms to review practices and procedures and give unbiased professional advice on how to improve systems. Portland is just hearing about the newest report from such a consultant firm on their police force.
While this article from the Portland News states the majority of the report from the Independent Police Review was positive, there is always room for improvement and the Portland Police Bureau is no different.
The report pointed out improvements made since the last evaluation, particularly regarding use of force in arrest procedures. Interestingly, many of the shortcomings also are related to use of force, a constant area of problems for forces across the country.
The Independent Police Review assesses actions taken in all officer-involved shootings. With this information they develop areas in need of improvement.
The most recent report urges the city to act on making medical attention for injured citizens a serious priority primarily when those citizens are injured by the police themselves. Immediate medical attention would reduce the incidence of citizen deaths due to police action.
The report also addresses use of Tasers, beanbags, and use of AR15 assault rifles. Better regulation and training is needed, according to the report, to ensure safety and fewer negative events. This seems like a no brainer but often training is provided on a minimal basis without policy in place.
It’s evident from comments in the news forum that the people of Portland, for the most part, support their police department as well as the men and women who serve on it. These consultants are in the business of informing a department where improvements can be made, and there is no perfect police department in the country.
Anyone who has been on the receiving end of criminal charges realizes how quickly an arrest can get heated. While the majority of arrests happen smoothly, many end in chaos or even tragedy. Further development of regulations helps ensure less of these chaotic episodes happen.
If you are facing criminal charges and need to discuss your case with a defense attorney that understands what you are going through, call today.