Article 8.1000. EXCESSIVE FORCE POLICY  

(a)

"Excessive force" is hereby defined as an aggressive act committed by a peace officer in the performance of his or her duty which is capable of or intended to cause serious bodily harm or death. Typically, the use of service weapons or other firearms or the use of a baton or a flashlight in a manner which is capable of inflicting permanent injury (e.g. striking blow to head or face) are examples of the use of excessive force.

(b)

The City of Bowie hereby adopts the policy prohibiting the use of excessive force by its local police department against any person or persons engaged in nonviolent civil rights demonstrations provided such demonstration and no perceived imminent threat of death or injury apparent to the police officer. Furthermore, under the circumstances will the force used be greater than necessary and if used it shall be in accordance with the approved departmental policies regulating the use of force.

(c)

The City of Bowie hereby prohibits any person involved in a demonstration from physically barring any entrance or exit of any facility or location which is the subject of a nonviolent civil rights demonstration.

(d)

Any person found guilty of violating any provisions of this article shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to a fine as provided for in the general penalty provision found in Section 1.105 of this code for each violation. Each day in which any such violation shall continue shall be deemed a separate offense.

(Ord. No. 98-2 adopted 2-3-98)