What key elements must be documented after a use-of-force incident?

The documentation of a use-of-force incident is critical for accountability, transparency, and legal compliance in law enforcement. The key elements that must be documented include the circumstances that led to the use of force and the rationale for the decisions made during the incident. This comprehensive documentation serves to provide context for the actions taken, demonstrating that the use of force was justified based on the specific situation encountered.

The circumstances outline the events leading up to the use of force, including any threats presented or crimes in progress, while the rationale details the reasoning behind the choice of force used—whether it was necessary, reasonable, and proportional to the threat faced. This level of detail is essential for reviewing and evaluating the incident later on, ensuring that the principles of necessity and proportionality in the use of force are upheld.

By contrast, elements such as weather conditions, the number of forces involved, and bystander reactions, while potentially relevant, do not capture the critical justification for the use of force itself. They may provide additional context but do not address the primary need for accountability regarding decision-making surrounding the use of force.