CHICAGO — The Chicago Police Department launched mandatory training designed to help officers de-escalate conflicts, including situations involving the use of force and mental health issues, officials said Monday.
The program is among several department reforms following the fatal shooting of teenager Laquan McDonald, who was shot 16 times by police.
The department, which is undergoing a U.S. Department of Justice investigation, will expand the use of body cameras, and Mayor Rahm Emanuel has pitched a new police accountability system.
The de-escalation training at the Chicago Police Academy, which is in its second week, was developed with a panel of national policing and mental health experts. It uses live scenarios and exercises to help officers better assess how to respond to complex and tense situations. Some of the tactics include using slower and calmer approaches when possible.
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