Office of Citizen Complaints

Policy Recommendations

Reference: 861-96

SUBJECT: Issuance of Department General Order regarding care and treatment of individuals displaying altered mental status and/or risks associated with positional asphyxia. Updated training regarding members' responsibilities relative to positioning, transportation, and medical treatment of persons taken into police custody.

RECOMMENDATION:
The San Francisco Police Department should issue a General Order regarding the care and treatment of individuals displaying "altered mental status," previously referred to as excited delirium, and/or risks associated with positional asphyxia. This Order should encompass members' duties relative to the positioning, transportation, and medical treatment of persons taken into police custody. Updated training for all members should be provided after issuance of new order.

The Order should contain mandatory language regarding care and treatment of persons in custody.

BACKGROUND:
Relevant Department policies regarding excited delirium, also referred to as altered mental status, and positional asphyxia were issued in 1994 and have expired. Department policy relevant to these issues currently only appear in the Booking and Detention Manual (SFPD DM-12). All members must be required to understand and comply with new written directives.

Case Investigated by: MIKE KLOSS, Investigator
BLANCHE BLACHMAN, Senior Investigator
Reviewed by: ROBERT JANISSE, Chief Investigator
Approved by: MARY C. DUNLAP, Director
Date: June 23, 1998

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