Are the police officers in the West Chester Police Department being trained to deescalate altercations by using peaceful conflict resolution strategies?

West Chester Police officers complete initial training that includes de-escalation, mental health de-escalation, and unbiased policing while attending the police academy. De-escalation training teaches officers to attempt to resolve situations using verbal skills rather than force. If force is necessary, officers are taught to resort to the least amount of force necessary in order to gain control or stop an action. West Chester Police are in the process of receiving refresher training in these topics, along with legal training on the Fourth Amendment and the most up-to-date related caselaw.

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1. Are the police officers in the West Chester Police Department being trained to deescalate altercations by using peaceful conflict resolution strategies?
2. Are the police officers in the West Chester Police Department prohibited from using carotid restraints (chokeholds, strangleholds, etc.)?
3. Are the police officers in the West Chester Police Department required to intervene if they witness another officer using excessive force? Will officers be reprimanded if they fail to intervene?
4. Are the officers in the West Chester Police Department required to give a verbal warning to citizens before drawing their weapon or using force?
5. Are the officers in the West Chester Police Department required to report each time they threaten to or use force on citizens?
6. Are the officers in the West Chester Police Department trained to perform and seek necessary medical action after using force?
7. Is there an early intervention system enforced to correct officers who use force?
8. Do the West Chester Police use body cameras?
9. What can I do as a concerned citizen?