For the Milwaukee Police Department and Fire and Police Commission
Chapter 5
Use of Force and Deadly Force Practices
Finding 19
Documentation, collection and marking of video evidence collected in use of force and deadly force investigations are inconsistent making it difficult to determine if those investigative steps occurred or were just not documented.
MPD should update its policy on evidence collection and require supervisory review and approval of use of force reports.
In 2013, fields were added in the AIM System’s Use of Force report, specifically addressing whether or not there was video evidence related to an incident, and if so, the name of the supervisor(s) who reviewed the video. In 2013, the collection and review of video evidence for use of force incidents was and continues to be addressed with all new supervisors at supervisory development training. It should be noted SOP 460.35(D)(1)(c) clearly states under the specific directions for completing the Use of Force report in the “details” field to “Indicate if video or audio was available and the name of the supervisor who reviewed the video. An electronic (CD/DVD) copy of the video should be forwarded to IAD.”
In addition, SOP 730.15(A)(2)(Mobile Digital Audio / Recording (MVDR) Equipment) and SOP 747.25(G)(2) (Body Worn Cameras) clearly articulates how members are to ensure video evidence is properly retained. Supervisory review and approval is required for Use of Force reports and SOP 460.035(B)(2-7) clearly articulates the extensive approval process for Use of Force reports as they are reviewed by several layers of supervision.
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We need to find ways not to use deadly force as often as it happens, because too many people die unnecessarily.
Body-Worn Cameras. Cameras (such as body-worn cameras) should be turned on for effective accountability purposes as soon as an officer exits the patrol car, or whenever there is interaction with the public, during the early stages of all encounters, except when the interaction involves serious sexual violence, dealing with informants, or when tactically impossible.