It is time to finally change the laws regarding use of force? Let our experts explain.

Mar 25, 2019

1 min

Patrick Oliver, Ph.D.

It’s a recurring subject that is dividing parts of society. What is the proper amount and when can and should police use force?


With increased media coverage, very public trials and a country that is seeing deep divisions between law enforcement and the people it is intended to protect – each case of an officer using force now comes with an enormous amount of scrutiny.


  • So, what are the laws pertaining to the proper use of force?
  • What deems an action an improper use of force?
  • How are officers trained and are they properly equipped when confronting a situation?
  • Do these laws need updating?

There are a lot of questions to be asked and that’s where the experts from Cedarville University can help.


Dr. Patrick Oliver serves as Director of the Criminal Justice Program at Cedarville University. He has over 27 years experience in law enforcement and is an expert in the areas of proper and improper use of force.  He was also he chief of police in Cleveland and suburban Columbus, Ohio. Patrick is available to speak with media regarding this issue – simply click on his icon to arrange an interview.




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Patrick Oliver, Ph.D.

Patrick Oliver, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Criminal Justice

Dr. Oliver serves as Director of the Criminal Justice Program.

Community-based PolicingImproper / Proper Use of ForceRecruitingHiringRetaining Police Officers

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