Chicago police to undergo mandatory ‘de-escalation’ training
CHICAGO — The Chicago Police Department launched mandatory training designed to help officers de-escalate conflicts, including situations involving the use of force and mental health issues, officials said Monday.
The program, which Superintendent Eddie Johnson discussed at an evening news conference, is among several department reforms following the fatal shooting of teenager Laquan McDonald, who was shot 16 times by police. The department, which is undergoing a U.S. Department of Justice investigation, will expand the use of body cameras, and Mayor Rahm Emanuel has pitched a new police accountability system. He’s expected to give a speech on policing and crime this week.
The de-escalation training at the Chicago Police Academy, which is in its second week, was developed with a panel of national policing and mental health experts. It uses live scenarios and exercises to help officers better assess how to respond to complex and tense situations. Some of the tactics include using slower and calmer approaches when possible.
During a news conference, Johnson said the training is designed to teach officers how to avoid the use of deadly force whenever possible.