Madison, WI (Feb. 19, 2016) – In a groundbreaking collaboration between leaders of color and law enforcement leaders, a group is issuing a call to action to all law enforcement agencies in Dane County on the use of force by law enforcement.

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Dane County police chiefs have agreed to support a list of 60 recommendations from a local task force about limiting the use of police force.

The Special Community/Police Task Force has issued numerous recommendations for police departments to change procedures, update training, educate the community and ensure the well-being of officers with the aim of improving the safety of everyone involved in police/citizen interactions.

The Special Community/Police Task Force was formed after the incidents in Ferguson, Missouri by the NAACP, United Way, law enforcement and Leaders of Color Collaboration. It was co-chaired by University of Wisconsin Police Chief Sue Riseling, Christ the Solid Rock Baptist Church Pastor Everett Mitchell, and Urban League of Greater Madison President and CEO Ruben Anthony. The 12 task force members met 15 times and held listening sessions in the community.

“These recommendations are the result of months of collaborating with every corner of the community,” said Riseling. “We ask all local law enforcement agencies to examine these recommendations and align around these issues, which will strengthen their relationships with communities of color and increase the safety of all.”

Some of the recommendations include coaching officers in de-escalation tactics, analyzing the use of body cameras, developing training on foot pursuits, developing relationships with community leaders and providing wellness programs focused on mental health, physical health and nutrition for officers.

The Dane County police chiefs agreed to support the recommendation before they were released Friday morning. Some of the recommendations can be implemented by the police chiefs, but others will require support from municipal governments.

Future reports will be focused on implicit bias and diversity within police departments.