Provide four examples of negligent supervision of police officers that have resulted in liability.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Negligent failure to supervise occurs when the supervisor fails to properly oversee subordinates' activities. The court in Lenard v. Argento56 held that at a minimum a plaintiff must demonstrate that the supervisory official authorized (implicitly or explicitly), approved, or knowingly acquiesced in the illegal conduct. In Grandstaff v. City of Borger, police officials were held liable for failing to take supervisory action after officers mistakenly opened fire and shot an innocent bystander who was attempting to help the officers. Negligent failure to direct occurs when supervisors fail to advise subordinates of the specific requirements and limits of the job. Negligent entrustment occurs when supervisors entrust officers with equipment and facilities and fail to properly supervise the officers' care and use of the equipment, and subsequently the officers commit an act using the equipment that leads to a violation of a citizen's federally protected rights. Such actions can ultimately lead to negligent failure to investigate or discipline charges.