High Use of Force Incident Raises Concerns for ACLU-NV

RENO, NV – The ACLU of Nevada is deeply concerned by the events that occurred at Hug High School on December 7, 2016 and the questions it raises about the use of excessive force. Law enforcement has a duty to use only the degree of force necessary to maintain the community’s safety. The ACLU of Nevada submitted a public records act request (NRS. 239) to the Washoe County School District today to get more information about these circumstances and the policies that led to this incident.

A child, who appeared to be in an emotional crisis, is in critical condition after, what appears from the limited video and information released, to be a situation where a less deadly means of intervention should have been utilized.

The ACLU of Nevada is also troubled by reports that the child may have been the victim of bullying and intends to discover whether the school followed statutorily required procedures for such incidents laid out in NRS Chapter 388.

Policy Director Holly Welborn said, “We intend to review the use of force, emergency, and bullying policies of the Washoe County School District and monitor developments as the Reno Police Department’s investigation of this matter continues.”

About American Civil Liberties Union of Nevada

Started in 1966, the ACLU of Nevada is celebrating its 50th year of public service. The ACLU of Nevada is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization committed to the defense and advancement of civil liberties and civil rights for all people in Nevada. For additional information, please visit http://www.aclunv.org.