MIPD Public Trust

FAQ's on Police Dept Policies

Public Trust Committee

Early in 2015, the King County Police Chiefs’ Association (KCPCA) affirmed its commitment to building community and trust by creating the Public Trust/Community Building committee.  This committee worked together with various community members to create a list of resources (known as the Menu of Options) that Chiefs and the Sheriff can use to build and maintain trust with their respective communities. 

The Menu of Options covers five areas: Policy, Training, Hiring & Recruiting, Community Outreach, and Partnerships.  In December 2015, the members of the KCPCA formally approved the Menu of Options and agreed to begin annual training and to embrace the Statement of Values as set forth in the Menu of Options. 

The KCPCA recognized that not all the options would be a good fit for every community, so each Chief and the Sheriff can choose the resources that best fit the needs of their particular community.  The resources found on the Menu of Options will be updated over time. 

Police Use of Force

It is the fundamental duty of law enforcement to preserve and protect all human life.  Officers shall respect and uphold the dignity of all persons and use their authority in a bias-free manner.

The proper use of force is essential to ensure impartial policing, build community trust, and provide safety and security for law enforcement.  While there are circumstances in which individuals will not comply with the law unless compelled or controlled by officers through the use of force, our officers remain mindful that they derive their authority from the community and that unreasonable force erodes that authority's legitimacy. 

To provide transparency and promote public safety, the Mercer Island Police Department's use-of-force policy is provided below.