I designed and led investigation into the NYPD’s use of force (excluding lethal instances).  Unlike those that followed, it was an honest one.  But it was tricky.  If I had to do it all over, there are a few things I would do differently.  Like never take the job in the first place.

Nonetheless, the use of force is necessary.  There needs to be better training, especially in de-escalation and involving more scenario-based modules.  But force is an integral part of law enforcement and the pursuit of justice.  

I once read an online exchange where someone said that if a perp was sexually assaulting his wife, the Christian thing to do would be nothing.  A pastor also once questioned the use of force (even non-lethal) to protect a congregation.  Not ok.  Really not ok.

In my personal experience, several of the times I used force worked out well.  It was only when I threw a basketball at a bully’s head when he stopped.  And when someone threatened a roommate with a concussion, I clotheslined him before he could make good on his promise.  I actually recall that ending his night.

It is extremely unfortunate, but that is at times, the only feasible avenue.  I once attended a mock barricade situation with actors and I was scared watching it unfold.