NCJ Number
138214
Date Published
1990
Length
9 pages
Annotation
To assure the proper handling of demonstrators, the City of Toledo developed a response procedure to anti-abortion demonstrations where the intent is to obstruct clinic operation for as long as possible through a nonviolent sit-in and passive resistance to arrest.
Abstract
A step-by-step response procedure for police officers assigned to anti-abortion demonstrations is specified in detail. In accordance with Section 519 of Public Law 101- 140, no member of the Toledo Police Division shall use excessive force against any individual participating in nonviolent civil rights demonstrations as long as the person conducts himself/herself in a physically nonviolent manner. Officers who encounter instances of civil demonstrations shall not use pain compliance techniques or pressure points on any individual participating in nonviolent passive resistance. Arrest teams for such demonstrations shall consist of six officers and a sergeant and shall have the responsibility for making the actual arrests.