Connecticut Senate Bill SB00460

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/20
• Refer: 3/10/20

Caption

An Act Concerning Use Of Force By A Peace Officer.

Impact

If enacted, SB 460 would significantly alter the legal framework governing how peace officers can respond to potential threats. It codifies that a belief in a person's wrongdoing does not automatically validate the use of force; instead, peace officers must consider whether their actions are reasonable under the circumstances. This change could lead to stricter accountability for officers involved in incidents where deadly force is employed, aiming to balance public safety with civil liberties.

Summary

Senate Bill 460, titled 'An Act Concerning Use of Force by a Peace Officer,' aims to clarify and modify the legal standards surrounding the use of physical and deadly force by peace officers. The bill enacts changes to Section 53a-22 of the General Statutes, specifying that peace officers are justified in using physical force when they reasonably believe it to be necessary for making an arrest or protecting themselves or others from imminent harm. However, it emphasizes that any use of deadly force must be strictly justified based on the totality of the circumstances, demanding a higher standard of justification from law enforcement officials.

Contention

The bill has sparked debate among legislators and community advocates concerning its implications on public safety and civil rights. Proponents argue that the bill provides essential safeguards against the excessive use of force by law enforcement, thereby protecting citizens' rights and enhancing community trust in police officers. Conversely, opponents of the bill express concern that the new standards could hinder law enforcement's ability to act decisively in high-pressure situations, potentially placing officers and the public at greater risk during confrontations.