What must law enforcement officers do if they use force during an arrest?

When law enforcement officers use force during an arrest, they are required to report the use of force according to department policy. This requirement is essential for several reasons: it ensures accountability within the police department, provides transparency regarding enforcement practices, and allows for proper documentation and analysis of incidents involving force. Departments typically have specific protocols outlining how and when these incidents should be reported, which can aid in ongoing training and policy development aimed at reducing unnecessary use of force.

The other options do not align with the fundamental responsibilities placed on officers in such situations. For instance, notifying the media may compromise investigations and is not part of the internal process of reporting force; filing a criminal charge against the suspect is typically not the responsibility of the officer immediately after an arrest, as this would depend on the circumstances of the situation; and waiting for supervision may delay the necessary reporting and accountability required for all use of force incidents. Each of these points reinforces why adherence to departmental policy regarding the reporting of force is vital in maintaining integrity in law enforcement practices.