Use of Force

Occasionally while in performance of their duties, law enforcement officials may find it necessary to use force against an individual. Force is used only when necessary and to the level required. Law enforcement officials may be justified in using force in order to protect themselves or others, to make an arrest or search or prevent escape after an arrest.

The Hurst Police Department has stringent policies on the use of force and trains all officers authorized to use force in following these policies. The Department monitors compliance with these policies and has established standard operating procedures for the review and tracking, and if necessary, investigation of all instances involving the use of force. The table is a breakdown of the types of force used in 2009.