PRESS RELEASE – The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a ‘Use of Force Policy’ for Law Enforcement Officers by Cabinet Conclusion No. 583 of 2015 dated September 21, 2015.
The Policy is designed to provide parameters and guidance to law enforcement officers in determining the appropriate use of force when discharging their duties.
Further, it reinforces the responsibility of law enforcement officers to adhere to proper practices and behavior.
The Policy recognizes that law enforcement officers must have the highest regard for the constitutional rights and human rights of all persons.
Therefore, as far as possible, law enforcement officers should use only that force which is objectively reasonable and necessary to accomplish lawful ends.
The Policy applies to all Gazetted and Non-Gazetted Police Officers of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, Special Reserve Police, Special Constables and Peace Officers.
The Use of Force Policy will inform the relevant standing orders to be issued by the Commissioner of Police.
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