What must law enforcement officers document when using force in an arrest?

When law enforcement officers use force during an arrest, they are required to document the incident thoroughly through a Use of Force Report. This report serves several important purposes; it provides a detailed account of the circumstances that necessitated the use of force, including the level of resistance encountered from the subject and any actions taken by officers to de-escalate the situation prior to the use of force.

Moreover, the Use of Force Report ensures accountability and transparency in law enforcement practices, as it helps to review the appropriateness of the force applied against an established set of policies and procedures. It not only serves as a record for internal review and oversight but may also be essential for legal proceedings if the incident is scrutinized by courts or civil rights organizations.

Other reports, like the Incident Report or Arrest Report, while important for documenting general events of an arrest, may not specifically address the nuances of force applied. A Witness Statement may provide valuable perspectives from bystanders but does not hold the same procedural weight as a Use of Force Report in documenting the officer's rationale and adherence to department policy in the use of force.