Are police officers in Connecticut required to intervene when witnessing excessive force?

In Connecticut, police officers have a duty to intervene when they witness a colleague using excessive force. This obligation is part of a broader commitment to uphold constitutional rights and ethical policing standards. Intervening helps to safeguard the integrity of law enforcement and ensures that the actions of all officers align with legal and departmental standards.

The requirement not only emphasizes the importance of accountability among officers but also reflects a growing recognition in law enforcement that excessive force undermines public trust and community relations. By mandating that officers intervene, the law encourages a culture in which officers take responsibility for the actions of their peers and prioritize de-escalation and appropriate responses to situations.

The other options do not align with this legal and ethical framework. For instance, stating that officers can choose not to get involved or only intervene if requested by a supervisor does not address the critical responsibility officers have in preventing misconduct. Additionally, restricting intervention to conditions where it is safe to do so introduces ambiguity that could deter officers from taking timely action to protect individuals from harm. Thus, the correct answer reflects the clear expectations placed on officers to act against excessive use of force.