Salem Reviewing Police Department's 'Use Of Force' Policies

SALEM, MA — Mayor Kim Driscoll is launching a review of the Salem Police Department's use of force polices after several residents contacted her.

"Given the tragic killing of George Floyd, every police department ought to be taking a hard look at their use of force policies to ensure they are aligned with community values and authorize local law enforcement to exercise their powers judicially," Driscoll said in a Facebook post announcing the review late Thursday.

Driscoll outlined a four-step review process, which includes including "a diverse range of input, experience and stories" and ending with a reform of use of force polices based on the feedback collected during the review.

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Driscoll said a preliminary review of the department's current policies shows "we already have some very good policies in place" and that Salem police officers are already instructed to use the least amount of force necessary in a given situation. She detailed other initiatives the department has taken in her post:

"We have a responsibility to be responsive to the need for change and to be reflective of our biases, privileges and power," Driscoll said. "And I am fully aware that that standard and accountability is especially important for myself as your Mayor. Stay tuned - more work to come!"

Read the Salem Police Department's current use of force polices.