Which use of force situation must be reported to the Attorney General?

The situation involving the discharge of a firearm towards a moving vehicle must be reported to the Attorney General because it represents a significant and potentially lethal use of force that raises serious legal and ethical considerations. This type of incident not only endangers the lives of individuals involved, including bystanders and the occupants of the moving vehicle, but also poses a high risk of causing unintended consequences.

Reporting such incidents is crucial for the accountability of law enforcement practices. It allows for a thorough review of the circumstances leading to the use of force and ensures adherence to established protocols regarding the use of deadly force. This level of scrutiny underscores the seriousness of the action and aims to uphold public trust in law enforcement agencies. Moreover, this reporting requirement aligns with principles of transparency and oversight, reinforcing the need for accountability in potentially dangerous encounters.

In contrast, other scenarios, while still important, may not meet the threshold for mandatory reporting due to the level of threat or potential harm involved. For instance, ramming an empty vehicle or causing a bruise from the use of force might not reach the same level of criticality that demands further investigation from the Attorney General's office.