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Use Of Force: Denver City Council Calls For Review Of Police Crowd Control Tactics At Protests

DENVER (CBS4) -- The Denver City Council is calling for an independent review of the Use of Force policy and its implementation at George Floyd death protests. The council said there have been "numerous complaints" about DPD tactics at those events.

Day 3 Of George Floyd Protests In Denver: Saturday, May 30
A third day of protesting in downtown Denver was brought to an early end after Mayor Michael Hancock enacted a curfew to prevent more vandalism and violence. Although many demonstrators had left by 8 p.m., hundreds were still by the State Capitol when law enforcement began dispersing the crowd. The curfew will be in force again May 31. (credit: Evan Semón/CBS)

The council is asking the independent monitor, Nick Mitchell, to focus on DPD's use of riot gear, chemical agents, "rubber bullets" and other crowd control practices.

RELATED: Denver Police Fire Tear Gas, Foam Projectiles At Protesters

The Denver Police Department debuted a new Use of Force policy in 2018 that was designed to increase public trust and improve officer safety.

"Just because an officer can use force, doesn't mean an officer should use force," Denver Police Chief Paul Pazen said.

The city council letter was sent to the independent monitor, Denver Police Chief Paul Pazen and Executive Director of Public Safety Murphy Robinson. An official with the Denver Police Department said Pazen and Robinson "acknowledge and support" calls to review the use of force policy from Denver City Council.

You can read the full letter here.

RELATED: All Chokeholds Now Banned Within Denver Police Department

RELATED: 'It's Worth Fighting For': Denver Police Chief Marches With Peaceful Protesters

 

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