What procedure is followed if an officer shoots at someone?

When an officer discharges their weapon at an individual, a personnel investigation is essential. This procedure is critical to ensure accountability, transparency, and to uphold the integrity of the police force. The investigation typically involves gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident.

This thorough process is necessary to determine if the shooting was justified or if it violated department policies or laws. Agencies have established protocols to protect both the public and the officers, ensuring that any use of force is scrutinized appropriately to maintain public trust and uphold the law. The other options, such as no investigation, immediate suspension without pay, or counseling, do not align with the standard procedures in place for handling such serious incidents. They overlook the necessity of an objective evaluation of the situation and can lead to misunderstandings or incorrect conclusions about the use of force.