BOISE, Idaho — The Boise Police Department announced Friday that it is suspending the use of a vascular neck restraint technique, called Lateral Vascular Neck Restraint (LVNR). In a press release, BPD says there have never been any deaths or serious injuries related to its use of the LVNR technique. They also specified it is not a chokehold, as it is not intended or designed to obstruct the airway.
BPD based the decision on a number of factors, including community input, to stop using the technique at this time. The suspension will allow the department to explore options, retrain as necessary and update their policy.
"The Boise Police Department is committed to reviewing our policies regularly and will provide updates on any additional changes related to use of force. We will also continue to have meaningful conversations with our community and work toward a better future together," according to an emailed press release from the Boise Police Department.
BPD’s Guiding Principles
- Safety: Preserve life, protect property, and respect constitutional rights while enforcing the law with fairness and impartiality. Safety is of paramount importance in all aspects of our work
- Service: Provide courteous police service. Embrace community input and involvement to enhance public safety, prevent and solve crime, and address quality of life issues. Exceed our customers' expectations for service.
- Leadership: Strive to maintain the proud tradition of our past while meeting the challenges of our future. Believe in doing the right thing, in the right way, at the right time, and for the right reasons.
- Accountability: Operate openly, maintaining public trust and confidence. Make decisions in the best interest of the community we serve. Be courageous, fair, and decisive.
- Professionalism: Demonstrate professionalism and uphold the law treating everyone with respect and dignity. Uphold the highest ethical standards. Demonstrate honesty and integrity in our words and in our actions.
- Creativity: Provide an individualized and innovative approach to each situation. Seek employee input to continuously improve our practices, programs, and services.
