What may happen if an officer fails to report a use of force incident?

If an officer fails to report a use of force incident, it could lead to disciplinary action. Law enforcement agencies have strict policies regarding the documentation of use of force incidents to ensure accountability and transparency. Failing to report such incidents undermines the integrity of the department and can prevent appropriate review and oversight of the actions taken by officers.

By not reporting, an officer may be seen as not adhering to departmental policies or the law, which could result in various forms of discipline, ranging from reprimands to suspension or termination. This emphasis on accountability is essential to maintaining standards within law enforcement and ensuring community trust.

The other options do not reflect the serious implications of failing to report a use of force incident. No consequences occurring would denote a lack of accountability, while treating it as a minor offense would not address the potential severity of the incident. Additionally, claiming that public trust would not be affected fails to recognize the critical connection between transparency in law enforcement and community confidence in policing practices.