Use of force data

Every time one of our officers employs a use of force that officer is required to record/document it on Body Worn Video and on TuServ (the software used by Cambridgeshire Constabulary to record the written records concerning use of force and stop and searches). The ‘Use of Force’ includes everything from deploying of specialist resources such as dogs or Taser trained officers, to using PAVA spray or a baton, or even the use of handcuffs when making an arrest. It also includes taking hold of someone’s arm to calm them. 

Each use of force is logged by the police officer who used the force, even if it as simple as touching the person’s arm when calming them down. The officer who used force logs every different type of force they used. If multiple officers attend the same incident, then every officer there who used force is required to make separate records related to their specific use of force. All of these records are collated internally allowing us to monitor trends and patterns. The data is used to ensure that we police the county fairly and is also used to help inform and train officers. 

We publish our data so that you can see what force has been used during a particular year.