After a use-of-force incident, who should provide accounts of what occurred?

In a use-of-force incident, gathering comprehensive accounts is crucial for an accurate understanding of what transpired. Having all witnesses to the incident provide their accounts ensures a broader perspective and helps create a more complete and unbiased narrative. Witnesses may include other officers, staff, and even members of the public, all of whom can offer valuable insights that can clarify the situation.

Relying on just one individual's account, such as the involved officer or the supervisor on duty, could result in a limited viewpoint and may overlook important details. Medical personnel's observations, while relevant for assessing injuries, do not capture the full context of the incident itself. Therefore, encouraging all witnesses to share their observations is vital for maintaining transparency, ensuring accountability, and supporting any subsequent investigations. This collective input leads to a more thorough and fair assessment of the events that took place.