Police change policy in light of Chasse death

By KATU Web Staff

Summary

Portland police officers will no longer be able to give rides to people who are sick or injured unless a paramedic on the scene gives their approval. The restriction stems from the death of James Chasse, who died while in police custody.

Story Published: Feb 20, 2007 at 7:45 PM PDT

Story Updated: Sep 17, 2007 at 7:55 PM PDT

Police change policy in light of Chasse death

PORTLAND, Ore. - Portland police officers will no longer be able to give rides to people who are sick or injured unless a paramedic on the scene gives their approval.

The restriction stems from the death of James Chasse, who died last September while in police custody.  He suffered a number of injuries, including broken ribs, during his arrest.

Under the new policy, it is the responsibility of the emergency medical team to make sure people are treated.

Earlier this month, Chasse's family filed a federal lawsuit against the city, demanding policy changes to reduce excessive force by officers.

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