BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — As the City of Buffalo continues to reform certain aspects of policing in the city, Mayor Byron Brown announced that the department will now no longer use "no knock" warrants on situations that are not "a clear danger to the safety of the community or an officer."
"No knock" warrants are when officers will enter a private area without announcing their presence. Eliminating their use in most situations, according to the city, means they will be used "infrequently".
Drug related offenses no longer count in this, which were a main usage of the "no knock" warrant.
Additionally, the city announced their plans to change the way police handle protests. The new Public Protection Detail will shift to using "non-violent" techniques. This is labeled as a transition from enforcement to protection.
"(Police will) treat peaceful protesters like any community police activity," Mayor Brown said, "one that is managed through proactive engagement and with a desire to foster greater understanding."
These initiatives take effect immediately.
