Justice Department restricts use of chokeholds, no-knock entries by federal law enforcement

Washington — The Justice Department said Tuesday it would be imposing strict limitations on when federal law enforcement officers can use chokeholds and "no-knock" entries, the latest in a series of steps undertaken by the Biden administration to bolster law enforcement accountability.

Under the new policies, federal law enforcement components are prohibited from using chokeholds and "carotid restraints" unless deadly force is authorized, which is considered when an officer has a "reasonable belief" they or another person face imminent danger of death or serious injury. 

The department is also placing new limits on the use of "no-knock" entries with the execution of warrants. Under the policy, such entries can only be used when an agent believes there is a threat to physical safety. In those circumstances, the agent must receive approval from a federal prosecutor and his or her law enforcement component.