Use of force in the arrest of Suspect,16

Brett raises some interesting issues.

1. What is the BPD policy for use of force in physical restraint of a suspect during an arrest?
2. Did the BPD officers comply the letter and the spirit of the rule in the arrest of Suspect,16?
3. Does Officer Michael McManus' use of force in the Woodman case and Suspect,16 case indicate a pattern that is unreasonable, imprudent or in excess of what is necessary?

"Officers should use the defense oriented Pressure Point Control Tactic (PPCT) whenever possible in subduing a subject. This places primary emphasis on striking motor function controlling nerve points in the body. Except in extreme situations, where the officer is in imminent danger of serious injury, no blows should be struck above the thigh, other than to the arms." BPD Rules and Procedures Rule 304

Did you know Suspect,16 took the handcuffs from the police and that the police officers were concerned that the suspect was "now armed with a weapon - the handcuffs?" Read the arrest report here.

Repeatedly punching someone [look at video to identify where fist and knee punches landed] doesn't sound like "defense oriented pressure point control tactic." It sounds like "beat the punk up" and "anger management issues." Which should sound familiar, given that the same cop was the one who took down Woodman when Woodman made an obnoxious comment. -Brett

Definitions from BPD Rules and Procedures Rule 304

1. Reasonable Amount of Force is the least amount of force that will permit officers to
subdue or arrest a subject while still maintaining a high level of safety for themselves and
the public.

2. Non-Lethal Force is that amount of force that will generally not result in serious bodily
injury or death.

3. Prudence is cautious, discreet, or shrewd action having due regard for the rights of
citizens while maintaining an awareness of the responsibilities of a police officer.

4. Reasonableness means within reason, moderate and/or fair action suitable to the
confrontation. The final decision as to the prudence and reasonableness of a police action
will be determined on a case by case basis by those members of the Department called
upon to judge the propriety of a fellow officer's action. Such judgments may not conflict
with the expressed provisions of this or any other rule or order.

Please frame your answers around the three questions above and the one below.

Given that police identify handcuffs as the weapon, and not a knife or gun for example, was Officer Michael McManus' use of force compliant with Rule 304 given the rule and the definitions listed above?