On this page you can find data related to use of force incidents in South Bend. The location of the incident is rounded to the 100-block in order to protect the privacy and anonymity of residents involved.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the City’s Use of Force policy?
What is the City’s Use of Force policy?
The Police Department’s Use of Force Policy is available through this direct link:
What is a Use of Force incident?
What is a Use of Force incident?
A Use of Force incident is any instance where an officer uses physical techniques or tactics, chemical agents, or weapons (including the intentional aiming of a firearm at a person).
All Uses of Force are required to be reported by the officer so that they can be reviewed.
What is the review process for Use of Force Incidents?
What is the review process for Use of Force Incidents?
When a Use of Force (UOF) occurs, an officer must complete a UOF report which is reviewed by:
- Supervisor(s):In all cases, the report and associated body camera footage are reviewed by a supervisor(s) before the end of the shift to ensure reporting accuracy.
- Internal Affairs: Every UOF is automatically sent to Internal Affairs through the report-writing/records management system.
- Review Board: Every UOF is forwarded to the UOF review board, which reviews the report and footage to ensure compliance with policy, training, and law.
- Police Chiefs: If the review board finds that there was a violation, or uncertain, the incident becomes an advisory, which is a more in-depth and elevated investigation, and it is escalated to the Command Staff and Police Chiefs.
What is the data source for this tool?
What is the data source for this tool?
The data source for the map is the Police department’s records management system and the data is administered by the Internal Affairs division. Anytime use of force takes place, the patrol officer must complete a Use of Force Report. Each Use of Force Report is stored in the Police department’s record management system.
In all cases, the Use of Force Report and associated body camera footage are reviewed by a supervisor before the end of the shift to ensure:
• That the report and footage align
• That policy and law was adhered to
Every Use of Force is also automatically sent to Internal Affairs and Use of Force review board to ensure compliance with policy and law.
How often is the data on this tool updated?
How often is the data on this tool updated?
The data on this map is updated monthly. The date listed next to the “Updated through:” heading at the top of the map shows you the most recent data available to view on the tool.