A recent document has come to light, revealing the disturbing truth behind the use of the controversial “excited delirium” diagnosis within the Rochester Police Department. This revelation comes in the wake of the tragic death of Daniel Prude, a 41-year-old Black man who died in police custody in March of this year.
According to the document, the “excited delirium” diagnosis was used by the Rochester Police Department to justify the use of force against individuals who were exhibiting erratic or aggressive behavior. This diagnosis, which has since been debunked by medical experts, was used to justify the actions of the officers involved in Prude’s death.
The document sheds light on how this diagnosis came to be used within the Rochester Police Department. It reveals that the department received training on “excited delirium” from a controversial organization known as the Institute for the Prevention of In-Custody Deaths (IPICD). This organization has been criticized for promoting the use of dangerous restraint techniques and for its ties to the Taser industry.
The use of “excited delirium” as a diagnosis has been widely discredited by medical professionals. In fact, the American Medical Association has stated that the condition is not recognized by the medical community and that it is often used to justify excessive use of force by law enforcement. Despite this, the Rochester Police Department continued to use this diagnosis as a justification for their actions.
The death of Daniel Prude has brought renewed attention to the use of “excited delirium” by law enforcement. The New York Attorney General’s office, which is currently investigating Prude’s death, has stated that the diagnosis played a significant role in the events leading up to his death. However, the Attorney General’s office has also stated that the use of “excited delirium” is not a valid justification for the use of force.
The use of this controversial diagnosis is just one example of the systemic issues within law enforcement that have led to the deaths of countless Black individuals. It is a symptom of a larger problem that must be addressed in order to prevent further tragedies like the death of Daniel Prude.
The fact that this diagnosis was used by the Rochester Police Department, despite being debunked by medical experts, is deeply concerning. It highlights the need for better training and oversight within law enforcement agencies. It also raises questions about the influence of organizations like IPICD on police departments across the country.
The use of “excited delirium” as a justification for the use of force is not only dangerous, but it also perpetuates harmful stereotypes about mental health and race. It suggests that individuals who are exhibiting erratic behavior are inherently dangerous and in need of forceful restraint. This type of thinking only serves to further stigmatize those with mental health issues and perpetuate the systemic racism that is deeply ingrained in our society.
The death of Daniel Prude is a tragic reminder of the urgent need for police reform. It is a call to action for our society to address the systemic issues within law enforcement that have led to the deaths of countless Black individuals. We must demand accountability and change from our law enforcement agencies in order to prevent further tragedies.
The use of “excited delirium” as a diagnosis is just one example of the systemic issues within law enforcement. It is a symptom of a larger problem that requires a comprehensive and holistic approach to address. We must work towards creating a more just and equitable society, where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect regardless of their race or mental health status.
In conclusion, the use of the discredited “excited delirium” diagnosis within the Rochester Police Department is a disturbing revelation. It highlights the need for significant changes within law enforcement and serves as a reminder of the urgent need for police reform. The death of Daniel Prude should not be in vain – it should serve as a catalyst for change and a call to action for our society to address the systemic issues that have led to this tragedy. Let us honor Daniel Prude’s memory by working towards a more just and equitable society for all.
