HB 16-1264 Summary

• Amends Colorado law to restrict peace officers' use of chokeholds to three specific circumstances: self-defense against deadly force, arresting persons who committed felonies involving deadly weapons, and preventing escapes by persons likely to endanger human life or inflict serious bodily injury.

• Defines "chokehold" as a method of holding a person by putting an arm around the neck with sufficient pressure to make breathing difficult or impossible, including any pressure to the throat or windpipe that may prevent or hinder breathing.

• Prohibits use of chokeholds in situations involving reckless or criminally negligent conduct against innocent persons not being arrested or retained in custody.

• Effective July 1, 2016, and applies to offenses committed on or after that date.