What does "duty to intervene" mean in law enforcement?

The concept of "duty to intervene" in law enforcement refers to the obligation of officers to take action when they observe another officer utilizing excessive force. This principle is grounded in the need to uphold ethical standards and protect the rights of individuals. When law enforcement personnel witness inappropriate behavior, such as excessive use of force, they are required to step in to prevent harm and ensure accountability. This duty is crucial for maintaining public trust and integrity within the police force, as it emphasizes that all officers bear responsibility for not only their own actions but also for addressing misconduct by their peers.

In the context of the other options, the notion of intervening in any situation, refusing action, or only intervening if threatened misrepresents the ethical and legal responsibilities that officers carry. The obligation to intervene helps reinforce a culture of accountability and discourages a bystander mentality when observing inappropriate behavior in the field.