Overview
This core practice area includes developing and implementing use of force and related policies and procedures, including de-escalation, that address reporting, reviewing and investigating uses of force, and establishing accountability and monitoring procedures, such as after-action reviews, training programs, supervision, and transparency.
KI Site
Fairfax County Police Department
The Fairfax County, Virginia, Police Department (FCPD) joined the Knowledge Lab’s Knowledge and Innovation (KI) Site Network for its comprehensive, multi-layered approach to reviewing force incidents and strengthening accountability. The FCPD’s review structure includes on-scene supervisory response, detailed documentation, dedicated compliance oversight, and regular analysis that informs updates to policy, training, and supervision. The department emphasizes clear communication about use of force expectations to officers, timely information flow to leadership, and transparency with the community. These practices support consistent decision-making, reinforce officers' understanding of policy, and enhance public trust. The FCPD’s commitment to data-informed review, continuous improvement, and transparent communication demonstrates valuable insights into effective, accountable use of force oversight.
Self-Review Tool
The Knowledge Lab is developing an online self-review tool to help agencies reflect on their current policies and practices evaluate them against research and evidence-informed practices their performance in key areas of policing. This tool is intended to provide a snapshot of where an agency currently stands within this core practice area. There are no right or wrong answers, only an opportunity for honest reflection, learning, and continuous improvement.
Resources Related to Use of Force
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The information provided within these modules has been gathered from various sources, including legal reviews, research, and practitioner and department-developed resources. These webpage modules are intended to be a guide for departments to use to improve their policing practices. Additional information and resources may be needed to implement the recommendations successfully. This resource is intended to be dynamic, and the Knowledge Lab will continue to update and add to these modules to provide additional and current guidance for departments.