Wisconisn examines new police tactics

Too many communities have been torn apart by a series of police shootings. It was a big issue across the nation in 2016, and in Wisconsin. Is there something police can do to prevent such incidents? A forum this week in Wisconsin seeks to provide answers to that question. The meeting in Janesville brought together a small group of law enforcement leaders from across the country. The Janesville police department has worked hard to reduce officer involved shootings, particularly those in which a mentally ill person is gunned down. Their officers recently completed training which offers a new outlook for policing in order to save lives. Part of the new tactics involve having police back off rather than rushing in when someone who is distraught seems intent on getting killed by police. Typically, that person is a danger primarily to themselves. A growing number of police departments are implemented their new training designed to lead to fewer lives lost. U.S. House Speaker Paul Ryan of Janesville is to be complimented for his role in putting this meeting together, and signaling that one of Washington’s most powerful politicians sees this as a priority. This is a worthwhile effort, which has the potential to lead to fewer losses of life, and that is something we can all support.