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In 2023, the use of force has increased as Regina police try to curb street crime.
According to a report released Tuesday by the Regina Police Commission, the number of uses of force increased by more than eight per cent from 2022 to 2023. The report outlined 249 incidents involving the use of force in 2023, compared to 230 in 2022.
“Eight per cent is obviously an increase, but when you look at the total number of calls we receive, the number of calls where force is used is very low,” said Deputy Police Commissioner Lorliee Davies.
She went on to say the increase in crime reflects the number of crimes police dealt with last year, as well as the types of crimes.
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“We’re seeing more and more gun and violent crime. We have people with very complex needs who may not be making the best decisions,” she said.
“I think if you (ask residents) if it’s surprising that … there’s been little increase in the use of force in this city, I think the answer is probably no.”
According to the Use of Force Review Board, 93 percent of the incidents were classified as Level 1, meaning they were appropriate and in accordance with policy.
“Let’s say you go to arrest someone and they run away or throw a punch at the officer. The officer has to grab their hand. That kind of thing could be first degree,” Davis explained.
“But level one can also be a more serious use of force that is still appropriate in the circumstances.”
She said while the number of incidents categorised as level one was not perfect, it was still encouraging.
“Everything went according to plan, so for me it’s a huge success,” Davis explained. “It shows that our officers are fully responsible. They’re doing what they’re supposed to do.
Of those incidents, 14 were determined to be level two, meaning the use of force was appropriate but may have been slightly inconsistent with police policy.
Three of the 2023 incidents were reported as Level 3, meaning officers’ use of force could result in disciplinary action.
Davis said the Regina Police Service is not aware of any fourth-degree use of force incidents, which could result in a criminal offense.
© 2024 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
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