READ AND PASSED

This enacted Philadelphia ordinance prohibits peace officers from using restraints or physical contact that create a substantial risk of asphyxiation when detaining someone. It specifically bans chokeholds, hogtying, and sitting, kneeling, or standing on a person’s head, face, neck, chest, or back, except when necessary to prevent serious bodily injury to an officer or member of the public.

Amending Title 10 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Regulation of Individual Conduct and Activity," by adding a new Chapter 10-2500, entitled "Prohibited Physical Contact by Peace Officers," to prevent unnecessary death or injury via asphyxiation by prohibiting certain physical contact by peace officers, all under certain terms and conditions.