Use of Force Update — Surrendered and Disarmed Suspects

I would like to propose clarifying Ventura's use-of-force laws regarding surrendered and disarmed suspects.

Currently, officers often continue using deadly force after a suspect has clearly surrendered or dropped their weapon. This creates inconsistent enforcement and encourages unrealistic policing.

Proposed Policy:

Once a suspect has clearly surrendered, dropped their weapon, or is otherwise no longer presenting an imminent threat, officers shall not use deadly force. Prior crimes—including homicide or attempted murder—do not, by themselves, justify shooting a suspect after they have surrendered. The appropriate response is arrest.

If the suspect creates a new imminent threat after surrender (such as reaching for another weapon or attacking officers), force may be re-evaluated based on the new circumstances.

Officers who intentionally use unjustified deadly force against a surrendered suspect should be subject to criminal investigation under the Ventura Penal Code and any applicable administrative discipline.

This change would provide clearer expectations for law enforcement roleplay, reduce unnecessary shootings, and create more realistic use-of-force standards.