Governor Ned Lamont has signed an executive order that bans chokeholds and requires Connecticut police officers to intervene and stop excessive use of force by another officer. The order enforces recommendations of the state police council.
The state Police Officer Standards and Training Council held a special meeting to address police misconduct and use of force amid widespread protests following the death of George Floyd in Minnesota.
All police departments in Connecticut are required to comply with standards set by the council.
The policy requires officers to use verbal warnings and de-escalation strategies before use of force, if possible.
Illegal chokeholds and excessive use of force are supposed to be documented, and officers who speak up will be protected from retaliation.
The executive order also mandates police body cameras, prohibits spending on military-style equipment, and reinforces community training to build relationships with minority neighborhoods.
