Escambia County Sheriff's Office Use of Force Policy 7/16/2024

Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of this General Order?

To ensure compliance with ECSO Training

To provide guidelines and procedures for the use of force by deputies (correct)

To review critical incidents involving Escambia County Sheriff’s Office members

To protect the safety of only the deputy

What is the policy of the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office regarding human life?

To value and preserve human life (correct)

To prioritize law enforcement duties over human life

To use force whenever necessary to conduct duties

To protect the safety of only the deputy

When must deputies discontinue the use of physical force?

When the suspect is in restraints

When the deputy feels threatened

When resistance ceases or when the incident is under control (correct)

When the suspect is resisting arrest

Under what circumstances can physical force be used against individuals in restraints?

To prevent their escape or prevent imminent bodily injury to the individual, the deputy, or another person Signup and view all the answers

What is the standard for determining the reasonableness of a deputy's use of force?

The objective reasonableness of the deputy's actions in light of the facts and circumstances Signup and view all the answers

What is the guiding principle for deputies when deciding to use force?

Use only the force that is objectively reasonable to conduct duties and protect safety Signup and view all the answers

What must deputies consider when deciding to use force?

The severity of the crime at issue, whether the suspect poses an immediate threat, and whether he is actively resisting arrest Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of the administrative review of critical incidents involving Escambia County Sheriff’s Office members?

To conduct an administrative review of the incident Signup and view all the answers

What is a deputy's duty after an use of force incident?

To provide appropriate medical care to individuals with visible injuries Signup and view all the answers

What is a deputy's duty to prevent excessive force by another deputy?

To intervene to prevent or stop the excessive force Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for reviewing an incident of excessive use of force?

The Division Commander or designee Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of de-escalation techniques?

To reduce the need for force and resolve the situation peacefully Signup and view all the answers

When is a deputy authorized to use deadly force?

When there is a reasonable threat of death or serious bodily injury to the deputy or others Signup and view all the answers

What is prohibited in the use of deadly force?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

When can a deputy use less-lethal force?

When de-escalation techniques are not effective or appropriate Signup and view all the answers

What is a restriction on the use of deadly force?

Against persons whose actions are a threat only to themselves or property Signup and view all the answers

What is required before using deadly force?

Identifying oneself as law enforcement and issuing a verbal warning Signup and view all the answers

When are warning shots not permitted?

In all situations Signup and view all the answers

What should a member do immediately after their actions result in death or serious bodily injury of a person?

Request medical assistance and notify their supervisor Signup and view all the answers

Who will respond to all actions by ECSO members that result in, or are alleged to have resulted in, serious injury or death of another person?

The OIC of Investigations or designee Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the fitness for duty evaluation?

To address the personal and emotional needs of the deputy involved in the use of deadly or lethal force Signup and view all the answers

What type of incident requires the OIC of Investigations or designee to respond?

Use of a vehicle to strike another person or vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the administrative investigation and written report?

To determine if the involved member's actions were consistent with agency policy Signup and view all the answers

When is a deputy required to submit an offense report?

When taking action that results in, or is alleged to have resulted in, injury or death of another person Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the involved member after an incident resulting in death or serious bodily injury?

They are removed from duty and placed on administrative leave Signup and view all the answers

Who completes an independent report of the investigation?

The FDLE or designee Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the preliminary written review of the incident?

To provide a comprehensive review of the incident to the Sheriff and Command Staff Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the involved member after an independent review of the incident?

They are required to complete a fitness for duty evaluation Signup and view all the answers

When does a supervisor investigate a use of force incident?

When the force exceeds soft empty hand control or results in injury or the allegation of injury Signup and view all the answers

What documents will be attached to the original offense report and forwarded to the Division Commander?

The Offense Report Supplement and Job Injury Notification Form Signup and view all the answers

What is included in the completed report?

An accurate description of the events leading to the use of force and photographs and/or video of all injuries Signup and view all the answers

Who completes a supplement report to the original offense report and Blue Team Report?

All deputies involved in or who witnessed the incident Signup and view all the answers

When can a deputy complete reports after the end of duty?

When extraordinary circumstances prevent completion before the end of duty Signup and view all the answers

What happens if a supervisor determines a citizen's accusation of use of force is demonstrably false?

Only a supervisor follow-up in the offense report is needed Signup and view all the answers

What is the responsibility of the On Duty Supervisor in a use of deadly force incident?

To ensure the prompt security and integrity of the scene Signup and view all the answers

When does a deputy notify their supervisor about a use of force incident?

Immediately, whenever the force exceeds soft empty hand control or results in injury or the allegation of injury Signup and view all the answers

What happens if a deputy is unable to complete all reports by the end of duty due to extraordinary circumstances?

The deputy will complete the reports within 24 hours Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of securing two perimeters in a use of deadly force incident?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for ensuring a constant chain of custody of the involved deputies’ firearm?

Supervisor or peer deputy Signup and view all the answers

What is the reason for providing a replacement weapon to a deputy whose firearm has been taken as evidence?

As a sign of support, confidence, and trust Signup and view all the answers

What type of training must all deputies receive at least annually?

Use of force policy and related legal updates Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of an 'unusual' email?

To provide a summary of the incident and offense number Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for designating an individual or committee to conduct an annual administrative review and analysis of certain incidents?

Chief Deputy Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of de-escalation techniques training?

To enhance deputy's discretion and judgment in using less-lethal and deadly force Signup and view all the answers

Why should a deputy not be allowed to return to the scene of the incident immediately?

Due to potential danger to themselves or others Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of providing a victim advocate to the deputy or his family?

To provide emotional support and assistance Signup and view all the answers

What type of situations are simulated in use of force training?

Actual shooting situations and conditions Signup and view all the answers

What is documented as part of use of force training?

All use of force training Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the involved member after an incident resulting in death or serious bodily injury?

They are removed from duty and placed on administrative leave Signup and view all the answers

Who responds to all actions by ECSO members that result in, or are alleged to have resulted in, serious injury or death of another person?

The OIC of Investigations or designee Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the fitness for duty evaluation?

To determine if the deputy is physically and mentally prepared to return to duty Signup and view all the answers

Who completes an independent report of the investigation?

The independent reviewing agency or deputy/officer Signup and view all the answers

What type of incident requires the OIC of Investigations or designee to respond?

Only incidents resulting in death or serious bodily injury Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the administrative investigation and written report?

To determine if the deputy's actions were consistent with agency policy, procedures, rules, training, or equipment Signup and view all the answers

When is a deputy required to submit an offense report?

When discharging a firearm, taking action that results in injury or death, applying force, or applying weaponless physical force exceeding soft empty hand control Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the preliminary written review of the incident?

It is provided to the Sheriff and Command Staff Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the independent review in accordance with section 943.1740, Florida Statute?

To provide an independent review of the incident Signup and view all the answers

What is the standard that deputies should use when deciding whether to use physical force?

The standard of a reasonably prudent deputy under the same or similar circumstances Signup and view all the answers

When can physical force be used against individuals in restraints?

When the individual is attempting to escape and only the minimal amount of force necessary to control the situation is used Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of notifying Command Staff of the incident?

To inform them of the incident Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of the use of force policy?

To value and preserve human life Signup and view all the answers

What should a deputy do when an individual ceases to resist?

Discontinue the use of physical force Signup and view all the answers

What is a key factor in determining the reasonableness of a deputy's use of force?

The severity of the crime at issue Signup and view all the answers

What is the guiding principle for deputies when deciding to use force?

To use only the force that is objectively reasonable Signup and view all the answers

What must a deputy consider when deciding to use force?

The severity of the crime at issue, whether the suspect poses an immediate threat to the safety of others, and whether he is actively resisting arrest or attempting to evade arrest by flight Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of an administrative review of critical incidents involving Escambia County Sheriff’s Office members?

To ensure an administrative review is conducted of the critical incidents Signup and view all the answers

What is a deputy's duty after an use of force incident?

To immediately notify their supervisor of the incident Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of de-escalation techniques?

To avoid the use of force whenever possible Signup and view all the answers

In what circumstances can a deputy use less-lethal force?

When the individual is actively resisting or evading arrest Signup and view all the answers

What is prohibited in the use of deadly force?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the deputy's duty after an use of force incident?

To notify their supervisor and document the incident on an offense report and Blue Team report Signup and view all the answers

When can a deputy use deadly force?

When the deputy reasonably believes there is an immediate threat of death or serious bodily injury Signup and view all the answers

Who investigates a use of force incident if the supervisor was not directly involved?

Another supervisor of equal or higher rank Signup and view all the answers

What is a deputy's duty when aware of excessive use of force by another deputy?

To intervene to prevent or stop the excessive use of force Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of securing two perimeters in a use of deadly force incident?

To secure the integrity of the scene and provide a safe environment for deputies Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for reviewing an incident of excessive use of force?

The Division Commander or designee Signup and view all the answers

What is required before using deadly force?

Verbal warning and identification as law enforcement Signup and view all the answers

What happens if a deputy is unable to complete all reports by the end of duty due to extraordinary circumstances?

The deputy has 24 hours to complete the reports with supervisor approval Signup and view all the answers

What is included in the completed report?

An accurate description of the events leading to the use of force, and photographs and/or video of all injuries Signup and view all the answers

What is prohibited in the use of force?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is required after an use of force incident?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Who completes a supplement report to the original offense report and Blue Team Report?

All deputies involved in or who witnessed the incident Signup and view all the answers

What happens if a supervisor determines a citizen's accusation of use of force is demonstrably false?

A supervisor follow-up in the offense report is required, and a Blue Team report is not generated Signup and view all the answers

When must a deputy notify their supervisor about a use of force incident?

Immediately after the incident Signup and view all the answers

What is the On Duty Supervisor's responsibility in a use of deadly force incident?

To ensure the prompt security and integrity of the scene Signup and view all the answers

What is attached to the original offense report and forwarded to the Division Commander?

The offense report supplement and Job Injury Notification Form Signup and view all the answers

Who will be the initial contact with involved deputies and gather necessary information regarding what happened during the incident?

On-scene supervisor Signup and view all the answers

What should happen to an involved firearm after a shooting incident?

It should be maintained in its current state and not cleared or reloaded by the involved deputy Signup and view all the answers

Why is a replacement weapon immediately provided to a deputy whose firearm has been taken as evidence?

As a sign of support, confidence and trust Signup and view all the answers

What should a supervisor do after a shooting incident involving a deputy?

Place the deputy on administrative leave and request a victim advocate Signup and view all the answers

What type of training must all deputies receive at least annually?

Use of force policy and related legal updates Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of an 'unusual' email?

To provide a summary of the incident and the offense number Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for designating an individual or committee to conduct an annual administrative review and analysis of certain incidents?

The Chief Deputy Signup and view all the answers

What should a supervisor consider when deciding if and when the deputies are to return to the scene?

Both the deputy's preferences and the integrity of the investigation Signup and view all the answers

Why should a deputy not be allowed to clear or reload their involved firearm?

To preserve evidence Signup and view all the answers

What should be simulated in use of force training?

Actual shooting situations and conditions Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

General Order: Use of Force

The purpose of this General Order is to provide guidelines and procedures for the use of force by deputies and to ensure an administrative review of critical incidents involving ECSO members.

Policy

The policy is to value and preserve human life, and deputies shall use only the force that is objectively reasonable to conduct their lawful duties and to protect the safety of the deputy and others.
The decision to use force requires careful attention to the facts and circumstances of each particular case, including the severity of the crime, whether the suspect poses an immediate threat, and whether they are actively resisting arrest or attempting to evade arrest by flight.
The "reasonableness" of a particular use of force must be judged from the perspective of a reasonable deputy on the scene, rather than with hindsight.

General Guidelines

Physical force should be discontinued when resistance ceases or the incident is under control.
Physical force should not be used against individuals in restraints, except to prevent escape or immediate bodily injury.
Deputies shall provide appropriate medical care to individuals who have visible injuries or request medical attention after a use of force incident.
Deputies have a duty to intervene to prevent or stop the use of excessive force by another deputy when it is safe and reasonable to do so.

De-escalation

Deputies shall use de-escalation techniques and other alternatives to higher levels of force consistent with their training whenever appropriate before resorting to force.
Deputies shall allow an individual time and opportunity to submit to verbal commands before force is used, whenever possible and safe.

Use of Less-Lethal Force

Deputies may use less-lethal force to control a non-compliant or actively resistant individual, including to protect themselves or others, restrain or subdue an individual, or bring an unlawful situation under control.

Use of Deadly Force

Deputies are authorized to use deadly force when it is objectively reasonable under the totality of the circumstances, including to protect themselves or others from an immediate threat of death or serious bodily injury.
Deadly force should not be used against persons whose actions are a threat only to themselves or property, and warning shots are not permitted.
Firearms should not be discharged, even if deadly force is justified, when there is an unreasonable risk to the safety of others.

Procedure when Use of Deadly Force Results in Death or Serious Bodily Injury

The involved deputy shall immediately notify their supervisor and request medical assistance.
The supervisor will notify Command Staff and Crime Scene will be notified and requested to respond.
The involved deputy will be removed from duty and placed on administrative leave, and a fitness for duty evaluation will be required prior to return to duty.

Reporting

Deputies shall submit an offense report when discharging a firearm, taking action that results in or is alleged to have resulted in injury or death of another person, or applying force through the use of lethal or less-lethal weapons.
Deputies involved in a use of force incident exceeding soft empty hand control or resulting in injury shall immediately notify their supervisor.

Administrative Assignment

Deputies placed on administrative assignment or leave pending review of death or serious bodily injury will complete a fitness for duty evaluation prior to approval for return to duty.

On-Duty Supervisor Responsibilities

The supervisor will ensure the prompt security and integrity of the scene, and provide support to the involved deputies.
The supervisor will complete an "unusual" email providing a summary of the incident and the offense number.

Chief Deputy Responsibilities

The Chief Deputy will designate an individual or committee to conduct an annual administrative review and analysis of incidents involving the discharge of a firearm, actions resulting in death or serious bodily injury, and use of force through lethal or less-lethal weapons.

Training

All deputies shall receive training at least annually on the agency's use of force policy and related legal updates.
Training shall be provided on a regular and periodic basis to instruct on objectively reasonable use of force, de-escalation techniques, and the proper use of restraints, weapons, and other equipment.

General Order: Use of Force

The purpose of this General Order is to provide guidelines and procedures for the use of force by deputies and to ensure an administrative review of critical incidents involving ECSO members.

Policy

The policy is to value and preserve human life, and deputies shall use only the force that is objectively reasonable to conduct their lawful duties and to protect the safety of the deputy and others.
The decision to use force requires careful attention to the facts and circumstances of each particular case, including the severity of the crime, whether the suspect poses an immediate threat, and whether they are actively resisting arrest or attempting to evade arrest by flight.
The "reasonableness" of a particular use of force must be judged from the perspective of a reasonable deputy on the scene, rather than with hindsight.

General Guidelines

Physical force should be discontinued when resistance ceases or the incident is under control.
Physical force should not be used against individuals in restraints, except to prevent escape or immediate bodily injury.
Deputies shall provide appropriate medical care to individuals who have visible injuries or request medical attention after a use of force incident.
Deputies have a duty to intervene to prevent or stop the use of excessive force by another deputy when it is safe and reasonable to do so.

De-escalation

Deputies shall use de-escalation techniques and other alternatives to higher levels of force consistent with their training whenever appropriate before resorting to force.
Deputies shall allow an individual time and opportunity to submit to verbal commands before force is used, whenever possible and safe.

Use of Less-Lethal Force

Deputies may use less-lethal force to control a non-compliant or actively resistant individual, including to protect themselves or others, restrain or subdue an individual, or bring an unlawful situation under control.

Use of Deadly Force

Deputies are authorized to use deadly force when it is objectively reasonable under the totality of the circumstances, including to protect themselves or others from an immediate threat of death or serious bodily injury.
Deadly force should not be used against persons whose actions are a threat only to themselves or property, and warning shots are not permitted.
Firearms should not be discharged, even if deadly force is justified, when there is an unreasonable risk to the safety of others.

Procedure when Use of Deadly Force Results in Death or Serious Bodily Injury

The involved deputy shall immediately notify their supervisor and request medical assistance.
The supervisor will notify Command Staff and Crime Scene will be notified and requested to respond.
The involved deputy will be removed from duty and placed on administrative leave, and a fitness for duty evaluation will be required prior to return to duty.

Reporting

Deputies shall submit an offense report when discharging a firearm, taking action that results in or is alleged to have resulted in injury or death of another person, or applying force through the use of lethal or less-lethal weapons.
Deputies involved in a use of force incident exceeding soft empty hand control or resulting in injury shall immediately notify their supervisor.

Administrative Assignment

Deputies placed on administrative assignment or leave pending review of death or serious bodily injury will complete a fitness for duty evaluation prior to approval for return to duty.

On-Duty Supervisor Responsibilities

The supervisor will ensure the prompt security and integrity of the scene, and provide support to the involved deputies.
The supervisor will complete an "unusual" email providing a summary of the incident and the offense number.

Chief Deputy Responsibilities

The Chief Deputy will designate an individual or committee to conduct an annual administrative review and analysis of incidents involving the discharge of a firearm, actions resulting in death or serious bodily injury, and use of force through lethal or less-lethal weapons.

Training

All deputies shall receive training at least annually on the agency's use of force policy and related legal updates.
Training shall be provided on a regular and periodic basis to instruct on objectively reasonable use of force, de-escalation techniques, and the proper use of restraints, weapons, and other equipment.

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Description

This quiz covers the guidelines and procedures for the use of force by deputies in the Escambia County Sheriff's Office. It ensures an administrative review of critical incidents and values human life.