G7.1.6 Choke Holds
Chapter: Chapter 07: Use of Force
Sub-Chapter: 7.1 - Use of Force
Effective Date: 09/23/2016
Revised Date: 06/18/2024
Rescinds: G7.1.6 – 6/21/2022
Purpose
To provide the Indiana University Police Department (IUPD) with guidance pertaining to chokeholds.
General Order
IUPD officers are prohibited from using chokeholds and other physical maneuvers that restrict the ability to breathe for the purpose of gaining control of a person unless deadly force would be considered necessary and objectively reasonable. Pursuant to Indiana Code 35-41-3-3, officers must give a warning, if feasible, to a person prior to using deadly force.
Definitions
Chokehold – defined by Indiana Code 35-41-3-3 means applying pressure to the throat or neck of another person in a manner intended to obstruct the airway of the other person. Indiana Code 35-41-3-3 also states that “Deadly force” includes a chokehold.
Deadly Force – defined by Indiana Code 35-31.5-2-85 means force that creates a substantial risk of serious bodily injury.
Serious Bodily Injury – defined by Indiana Code 35-31.5-2-292 means bodily injury that creates a substantial risk of death or that causes serious permanent disfigurement, unconsciousness, extreme pain, permanent or protracted loss or impairment of the function of a bodily member or organ, or loss of a fetus.
Related Information
Indiana Code
- 35-31.5-2-85 Deadly force
- 35-31.5-2-292 Serious bodily injury
- 35-41-3-3 Use of force relating to arrest or escape
Indiana University Police Department
- G7.1.2 LETB Statewide Policy on Deadly Force