“This case underscores the desperate need for more stringent laws on use of lethal force. International standards state that law enforcement officers can only use deadly force when there is an imminent threat to life or serious injury. Furthermore, all use of force should only be used in proportion to the threat posed.
“Not a single state in the U.S. complies with these standards. Police dash camera footage released the year after Laquan McDonald was killed contradicts prior accounts from officers on the scene and called into question why he was shot 16 times.
“Families and communities should not have to fear those that are sworn to protect them. All states, including Illinois, must urgently bring laws and policies into compliance with international standards. It is long past time to hold police accountable for the use of lethal force.”