Frequently Asked Questions
Are Urbana Police Officers trained in de-escalation techniques?
Yes, all Urbana Police Officers undergo de-escalation training certified by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board. This includes 8 hours of initial classroom instruction at the University of Illinois Police Training Institute during their 16-week basic academy phase. Recruits are then tested on these principles through live-action scenario training throughout the remainder of their academy time. The Department further reinforces this training with an annual in-service training block, taught by a certified Advanced Verbal Defense and Influence Instructor, focusing on improved de-escalation, communication, and conflict management techniques.
Does the Urbana Police Department use chokeholds or strangleholds?
Chokeholds and strangleholds are strictly prohibited by UPD policy except in cases where lethal force would be authorized, as outlined in the Use of Force policy.
Are Urbana Police Officers required to intervene if they witness another officer using excessive force?
Yes, Urbana Police Officers are obligated by both policy and ethics to intervene if they witness another officer using excessive force, as stated in the Use of Force policy. Failure to intervene may lead to potential disciplinary proceedings.
Are Urbana Police Officers restricted from shooting at moving vehicles?
Yes, UPD officers are restricted from shooting at moving vehicles unless there are no other reasonable means to avert the threat, or if deadly force other than the vehicle is directed at the officer or others, per the Use of Force policy. Officers are directed to move out of the path of an approaching vehicle whenever possible.
Does the Urbana Police Department use a clear use of force continuum?
Yes, the Urbana Police Department employs the use of force continuum model taught at the University of Illinois Police Training Institute.
Are officers at the Urbana Police Department required to report uses of force or threatened uses of force?
Yes, Urbana Police Officers are required to document uses of force in their police reports, encompassing threats of pepper spray use, pointing a firearm at a person, or engaging in defensive tactics, as outlined in the Use of Force policy.
How are Urbana Police Officers selected and vetted for good moral character and conduct?
The selection process involves a written test, interviews by a panel of Police Officers and civilian City employees, an interview with the Chief and Deputy Chiefs of Police, and a conditional offer of employment. The final step includes medical exams, a psychological exam, and a thorough background investigation that involves interviews with people knowledgeable about the candidate's character and conduct.
Are Urbana Police Officers trained to provide medical attention during a critical use of force?
Yes, Urbana Police Officers are trained to provide emergency medical attention, and they carry emergency medical supplies on their person or in their squad cars. Officers have received numerous lifesaving awards for their efforts in various critical incidents over the past several years.
Do Urbana Police Officers wear and use body-worn cameras?
Yes, Urbana Police Officers have been wearing and using body-worn cameras since January 2019, following Illinois state statute guidelines. The Department has also utilized squad car video systems for more than 30 years.
Do Urbana Police Officers receive anti-bias training?
Yes, Urbana Police Officers undergo anti-bias training during their annual in-service training, facilitated by both external and internal instructors.
How does the Urbana Police Department investigate and respond to reports of discrimination and misconduct by officers?
Complaints of discrimination and misconduct are assigned to supervisory staff for investigation. This process includes interviews with involved subjects and officers, video and documentation review, and a thorough investigation report provided to the complainant. If dissatisfied, the complainant has the option to appeal the decision.