Statement: Cambridge Police Department's Use of Force Policies

The Cambridge Police Department recently received a request for the Department’s Use of Force policy and procedures. This request, as well as the recommendations contained in the President’s Task Force on 21^st Century Policing Final Report, has led to an ongoing, constructive dialogue within the police department, City Manager’s office, and between the police and the Cambridge community.  

While our long-standing position has been to withhold select information that relates to the Department’s internal workings and safety practices, further consideration and a desire to evolve and stay aligned with the recommendations cited in the 21^st Century Policing Report has resulted in the Department concluding that it will release its Use of Force policy, as well as supplementary policies. You will find those policies on our website at http://bit.ly/CPDPolicies.  

Over the coming weeks and months, we will also be making other policies available on our website – cambridgepolice.org – to give citizens an opportunity to review why and how our department operates in the manner that it does. 

The responsibility we have to serve and protect members of the community and ensure the safety of our officers is one we don’t take lightly. The Cambridge Police Department recognizes and respects the public’s desire for transparency within government agencies. We believe that transparency can reinforce trust between the police and the communities they serve. By listening, engaging and integrating with the community, we have established meaningful relationships and trust with the citizens of Cambridge.  To ensure that continues, we encourage ongoing dialogue while we continue to proudly protect and serve this great, safe city.