What overarching goal does the Connecticut Use of Force Policy aim to achieve?

The overarching goal of the Connecticut Use of Force Policy is centered around enhancing community relations and building trust in law enforcement. This focus acknowledges the critical need for police departments to maintain positive relationships with the communities they serve. Encouraging trust and transparency is essential for effective policing, as it fosters cooperation between law enforcement and the public, promotes accountability, and can ultimately lead to improved public safety.

In the context of the policy, this mission emphasizes the importance of using force only when necessary and appropriate, which is crucial in maintaining public trust. When officers adhere to the principles outlined in the policy, they are more likely to act in ways that respect the rights and dignity of individuals, thereby strengthening community ties.

The other options, while they may contribute to the overall function of policing, do not encapsulate the primary goal of the Use of Force Policy as effectively. For instance, minimizing officer-involved shootings is an important outcome but is not the singular aim. Standardizing approaches to all crimes relates to consistency in application, and ensuring advanced training for officers pertains more to individual officer performance rather than the broader objective of community engagement and trust.