The Marin County Sheriff’s Office already prohibits the use of “choke holds,” which restrict air flow, as a neck restraint to overcome resistance under any circumstances. 

Effective immediately, the Sheriff’s Office is suspending the use of the carotid restraint, which restricts blood flow, as an authorized restraint hold. As part of this suspension, the Marin County Sheriff’s Office will gather, review, consult with legal counsel and evaluate regional data and science associated with the use of the carotid restraint as a control technique.

“I recognize the community’s growing concern regarding this use of force application and we are responding to those concerns by taking action,” stated Sheriff Robert T. Doyle. “This is just the first of many steps that we will take to continue to build trust and create equity within the communities we proudly serve.” 

The Marin County Sheriff’s Office will continue to search for proactive ways to reduce our overall use of force and identify additional ways to achieve peaceful resolutions to conflict. We are committed to de-escalation when possible and train in a manner to resolve all interactions peacefully. We look forward to listening to you and working in partnership with our communities on solutions to reduce violence and enhance safety in our communities.