What is one possible outcome for departmental discipline in unreasonable use of force cases?

In unreasonable use of force cases, one possible outcome for departmental discipline is decertification of officers. This process involves revoking an officer's certification, which is typically required to serve in law enforcement. Decertification can occur when an officer is found to have engaged in misconduct, including the excessive use of force, which violates established policies or laws. The primary goal of this disciplinary action is to ensure accountability and maintain the integrity of the police force.

Decertification acts as a significant deterrent to other officers, reinforcing the importance of adhering to ethical standards and departmental policies. It also helps protect the community by removing individuals who have demonstrated a propensity for inappropriate or illegal behaviors, thus fostering trust in law enforcement agencies.

While officers may experience different forms of response for their actions, such as retraining or suspension, serious cases of unreasonable use of force can lead to loss of certification, which fundamentally impacts an officer's career in policing. Other outcomes such as the expansion of officer rights or immediate promotions would not appropriately address the severity of misconduct involved in such cases.