Which of the following actions should be taken immediately after an incident involving use of force?

Documenting the incident and notifying superiors is crucial immediately after a use of force incident for several reasons. First and foremost, accurate documentation ensures that there is a clear and objective record of what transpired, which is vital for any subsequent investigation or review. This documentation should encompass all relevant details, including the time, location, nature of the incident, actions taken, and the justification for the use of force.

Notifying superiors is equally important, as they need to be aware of the incident for legal, procedural, and operational reasons. This notification initiates the proper protocols within the department, ensuring that the appropriate investigative processes are followed and that the incident is addressed adequately in accordance with departmental policies.

By prioritizing documentation and communication with superiors, officers help to uphold transparency, accountability, and adherence to departmental guidelines. These actions also play a role in protecting the officer and the department legally, as thorough documentation can be critical if the incident is scrutinized later on.