What is a chokehold restraint?

A chokehold restraint, also known as a carotid restraint, is one way a police officer can exert physical control over a suspect. However, chokehold restraints are controversial, many police departments ban them, and they can cause severe injuries or death.

How Chokehold Restraints Work

The term chokehold often refers to two different kinds of restraints, including:

  • Vascular neck restraints. Vascular neck restraints occur when a police officer applies pressure to the carotid arteries and jugular veins on the sides of the neck. This hold interferes with blood flow to the brain and can cause the suspect to lose consciousness. However, if it is performed correctly, the suspect should be able to breathe.
  • Respiratory neck restraints. Respiratory neck restraints should only be used by police officers when there is a justified need for lethal force. Respiratory neck restraints are dangerous. The police officer puts pressure on the front side of the neck, compresses the trachea, and interferes with the suspect’s ability to breathe.

If either type of restraint is used, the law enforcement official must be trained on how to use the restraint safely, and the restraint must be justified given the circumstances of the situation.

Chokehold Restraint Injuries

It is very easy for something to go wrong when a police officer attempts to use a neck restraint. A person could be left with permanent brain damage or could die from the restraint. For this reason, neck restraints are not typically used by police officers and are banned by many police departments.

When Is a Chokehold Restraint Police Brutality?

Police brutality occurs when an officer uses more physical force than necessary to manage a suspect, contain a situation, or protect the public. A chokehold restraint may often be more physical force than necessary and may be police brutality.

However, you will need evidence to prove that a chokehold restraint was police brutality and that you have the right to make a legal recovery if you’ve been hurt or your loved one has been killed. Our experienced Wisconsin police brutality lawyers can help you evaluate your case, and we will fight for your fair recovery. Contact us now to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.

Jason F. Abraham
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Helping car accident and personal injury victims throughout Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa since 1993.