93.9 The Eagle – The News and Talk of Columbia, MO
The Columbia City Council on Tuesday night voted against an ordinance banning police chokeholds.
Chief Geoff Jones says his department’s updated policy already bans it. The move is only allowed in a life-or-death situation. It would also have to be the only reasonable means of force available for an officer at the time.
“After conversation with the council, and with some members of the community, we have changed our policy language so that it is clearly stated that [chokeholds are] prohibited unless it is deadly force,” Jones said.
Mayor Brian Treece was part of the city council majority that voted against the ordinance.
“I think the policy is superior to the ordinance. I think it is more clear to officers,” Treece said.
Jones says CPD also has annual use-of-force training.
