Use of force report on Calgary Police Service stresses training & recruitment

CALGARY – A wide-ranging report on the Calgary Police Service’s use of force makes 65 recommendations that touch on training, recruitment, equipment and oversight.

An independent review by a retired Court of Queen’s Bench chief justice says front-line officers should have annual training on how to de-escalate intense situations.

It also suggests that psychological tests used in recruitment should be evaluated.

Neil Wittmann recommends all front-line patrol officers carry conducted energy weapons, pepper spray and batons in addition to handguns.