Use of Force reporting has evolved significantly over the years, transforming from simple paperwork into a structured, compliance-driven process. When I first entered law enforcement, documenting Use of Force incidents was straightforward, often relying on a simple form and an officer’s word. But with legal precedents and the rise of modern Records Management Systems (RMS), expectations for accuracy and accountability have never been higher.
The landmark Supreme Court decision Graham v. Connor, 490 U.S. 386 (1989), established the objective reasonableness standard, reinforcing that while Use of Force is a reality in policing, its documentation and review must follow clear legal and policy standards. This ruling does not specify how agencies should report Use of Force, but it laid the foundation for evaluating force under the Fourth Amendment. It clarified that an officer’s actions must be judged based on what a reasonable officer would do in the same situation, without the benefit of hindsight.
While Graham v. Connor does not outline reporting requirements, it has influenced policies and best practices for Use of Force documentation. Agencies have since adopted structured reporting methods—requiring detailed narratives, force classifications, and justifications—to ensure compliance with NIBRS, DOJ policies, and department regulations. Given these requirements, why would any agency risk relying on outdated, paper-based reports when modern technology ensures accuracy, accountability, and compliance?
Why an Integrated Use of Force RMS Module is Essential for Law Enforcement
Ensuring compliance and accountability in Use of Force reporting means adopting an automated, NIBRS-compliant RMS solution designed for law enforcement agencies. A dedicated Use of Force module streamlines reporting, enhances accuracy, and protects agencies from liability.
How ARMS Simplifies Use of Force Reporting
With ARMS, agencies can:
- Seamlessly integrate Use of Force reports as case supplements, capturing all necessary data for accurate reporting.
- Document justification for force, the type of force applied, and its effectiveness.
- Use an interactive diagram to illustrate the precise areas where force was applied.
- Generate reports and supplements as individual documents, ensuring compliance with subpoenas, FOIA requests, and legal requirements.
- Store all records securely and indefinitely in the Microsoft Azure Government Cloud through our SaaS platform.
Does your RMS offer this level of functionality? If not, your agency may be at risk of incomplete documentation, compliance violations, and legal challenges.
How RMS Helps Leaders Mitigate Liability & Ensure Compliance
As a law enforcement executive, the weight of accountability, liability, and compliance on your shoulders is immense. I understand that firsthand. I’ve occupied that seat, navigated evolving policies, and grappled with the responsibility of ensuring my agency met the highest standards.
Why not partner with an RMS provider that understands those challenges? One that prioritizes your agency’s integrity and actively helps mitigate liability for your municipality, ISD, university, or county?
In today’s law enforcement landscape, choosing the right technology is not just about efficiency—it’s a necessity for transparency, compliance, and public trust.
Take Action Today and Bring Your Agency into Compliance!
The question isn’t whether Use of Force reporting should evolve—it already has. The real question is: Is your agency keeping up?
Don’t let outdated systems put your agency at risk. Contact ARMS today for a free demo and see how our Use of Force module ensures compliance, efficiency, and transparency.
