Problem I: Research The Rodney King "use of force case". In the California prosecution of the police officers involved in the excessive force allegations, all were basically found not guilty of excessive force. In their federal trial, the police officers involved were found guilty. Which court system got it right? What would you do if you were L.A. Police chief Daryl Gates at the time of discovery of the incident? What message does this incident send to the community? Could the resulting riots have been prevented?
Problem II: When does reasonable force become excessive force? Is there an easy line of demarcation for the police and the public to recognize when force becomes excessive? Would having police officers required to wear body cameras at all times help reduce excessive force? Can you think of any policy requirements that might help reduce excessive force?