Judge Temporarily Bans Use of Less-Lethal Tools by Detroit Police on "Peaceful Protesters"

A federal judge late Friday granted a temporary restraining order requested Monday by the protest group Detroit Will Breathe, which bars Detroit police officers from using several tactics and equipment on "peaceful protesters" for 14 days.

Police Chief James Craig responded to the order by U.S. District Judge Laurie J. Michelson by saying his officers only have used force when protesters weren't peaceful and that the ruling won't change how the department handles demonstrations, the Detroit News reports.

For a period of 14 days, to be extended upon a showing of good cause, but not beyond 28 days absent consent by ... the City of Detroit, including the Detroit Police Department ... is enjoined from:

* Using striking weapons (including, but not limited to, batons and shields), chemical agents (including, but not limited to, tear gas and pepper spray), or rubber bullets against any individual peacefully engaging in protest or demonstrations who does not pose a physical threat to the safety of the public or police;

* Deploying chemical agents or a sound cannon against persons peacefully engaging in protest or demonstrations without an audible warning and a reasonable amount of time to disperse;

* Placing in a chokehold or ramming with a vehicle any individual attending a demonstration;

* Tightening the zip ties or handcuffs placed on any individual to the point that the restraints cause physical injury, including loss of circulation or change in color;

* Arresting any demonstrators en masse without probable cause.