Final Report of Cyrus R. Vance, Special Assistant the Secretary of Defense Concerning the Detroit Riots, July 23 through August 2, 1967

• NCJ Number: 82468
• Author(s): C R Vance
• Date Published: 1967
• Length: 140 pages
• Corporate Author: US Dept of Defense
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: News Release, (September 12, 1967)

Annotation

This report covers the Federal activities connected with the riots in Detroit during the period July 23 through August 2, 1967. Its purpose is to recount the sequence of events, to summarize the experience gained, and to focus on the problems encountered for consideration in planning for similar operations.

Abstract

Based on the experiences in Detroit, where rioting and lawlessness were intense, it appears that rumors are rampant and tend to grow as exhaustion sets in at the time of rioting. Thus, authoritative sources of information must be identified quickly and maintained. Regular formal contact with the press should be augmented by frequent background briefings for community leaders. To be able to make sound decisions, particularly in the initial phases riots, a method of identifying the volume of riot-connected activity, the trends in such activity, the critical areas, and the deviations from normal patterns must be established. Because the Detroit disorders developed a typical pattern (violence rising than falling off), it is important to assemble and analyze data with respect to activity patterns. Fatigue factors need more analysis, and the qualifications and performance of all Army and Air National Guard should be reviewed to ensure that officers are qualified (National Guard troops in Detroit were below par in appearance, behavior, and discipline, at least initially). The guard should recuit more blacks (most of the Detroit rioters were black), and cooperation among the military, the police, and firefighting personnel needs to be enhanced. Instructions regarding rules of engagement and degree of force during civil disturbances require clarification and change to provide more latitude and flexibility. Illumination must be provided for all areas in which rioting is occurring, and the use of tear gas should be considered. Coordination at the Federal level to handle riots is emphasized. Appendixes include a chronology of major riots, memos, a Detroit police incident summary, police maps of Detroit, and related material. Tables and footnotes are included.