What action should an officer take if they observe another officer using excessive force?

When an officer observes another officer using excessive force, reporting to a higher authority is the appropriate action. This approach ensures that the incident is addressed by someone with the necessary authority to investigate and take appropriate action. Reporting allows for the situation to be handled swiftly and through proper channels, without escalating the confrontation between officers on the scene.

By reporting the incident, an officer helps maintain the integrity and accountability of the law enforcement agency, while also ensuring that the principles of ethics and justice are upheld. This action is crucial in protecting the rights of individuals and preserving public trust in law enforcement.

In contrast, confronting the officer immediately could lead to a potentially dangerous situation or conflict between peers, which may not effectively resolve the issue at hand. Ignoring the situation is not an option, as it could contribute to a culture of tolerance for misconduct within the department. Documenting the incident is important, but without immediate reporting, it may not provide a timely resolution or response to the excessive force being observed. Therefore, reporting to a higher authority is the key step in ensuring accountability and addressing improper conduct within the force.