Orlando police chief says department has banned no-knock warrants, choke holds

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando Police Department is banning no-knock warrants and choke holds, Orlando police Chief Orlando Rolon said Monday.

He announced changes during a workshop held with city commissioners to discuss updates to policy and procedures.

The updates come following the Black Lives Matter protests happening across the country and in the city following George Floyd’s death in police custody.

READ: ‘Don’t forget us, protect us’: Orlando police officers sound off in survey about their chief, department

Police Chief Rolon, “Seldom do we do this but NOW no knock warrants are banned”! #policereform #WFTV pic.twitter.com/AMR3lTS8Ll
— Karen Parks (@KParksWFTV) July 6, 2020

Rolon said no-knock warrants were seldom used in the past, but now will be prohibited.

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, Rolon and city commisisoners hosted the meeting to address the changes and enhancements that are needed within the police department.

Rolon said the changes brought the department’s policies in line with “9 Can’t Wait,” a nationwide campaign organized by the police reform advocacy group Campaign Zero.

While we recognize that changes in policy are necessary, we also acknowledge that more actions are needed. As a city, we're committed to the work to ensure that every person who calls Orlando home is treated fairly and has equal access to opportunities. https://t.co/nVKKYW7lfA
— Mayor Buddy Dyer (@orlandomayor) July 6, 2020

Orlando Police Dept discusses proposed changes to policies and procedures during a Virtual Workshop streaming NOW. #WFTV pic.twitter.com/IyucFucQxd
— Karen Parks (@KParksWFTV) July 6, 2020

Commissioner Hill believes some issues in her district start with traffic stops that escalate, asking for analysis/data/numbers on traffic stops . #wftv
— Daralene (@DaraleneJ) July 6, 2020

Commissioner Sheehan suggests bias/diversity training be directed toward certain officers, citing examples of officers who feel empowered to express divisive views on social media, also expressing concerns about lack of teeth in police review board. #wftv
— Daralene (@DaraleneJ) July 6, 2020

Chief Rolon cites police bill of rights restricts department from doing some things. Commissioner Sheehan now saying city shouldn’t hide behind that reasoning. #wftv
— Daralene (@DaraleneJ) July 6, 2020

Video: Orlando police chief talks use of force, police unions and proposed policy changes 9 Investigates went in-depth with the Orlando police chief about specific policy changes being considered, use of force and making it easier to fire problem officers.