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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2009
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26

Police Brutality? It Could Just Be Excited Delirium

Research may help clear cops who end up with dead perps

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(Newser) – New research could help exonerate police officers accused of using excessive force to restrain unruly perpetrators, New Scientist reports. So far the American Medical Association has not recognized “excited delirium,” a condition describing an agitated, combative person who exhibits superhuman strength and high body temperature—a rare condition common to crack addicts that often leads to death.

But new analysis of 90 perpetrator death cases may change that.  Scientists at University of Miami in Florida noticed two biomarkers: a decrease in dopamine transporters, which help reduce the risk of potentially fatal heart malfunctions; and an increase in heat shock proteins, which would heat up the body. But fatal cases of excited delirium may still be induced by police brutality, one physician notes.

The American Medical Association does not recognize
The American Medical Association does not recognize "excited delirium," but with new research, that could soon change.   (Shutter Stock)
The American Medical Association does not recognize
The American Medical Association does not recognize "excited delirium," but with new research, that could soon change.   (Shutter Stock)
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26 comments
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Jayster999
Aug 8, 09 6:43 PM CDT
Police brutality is usually caused by a perp that wants to throw down with officers who are trying to do their duty. They would do a lot better if they were respectful and obedient when dealing with cops. If you get combative things degenerate quickly. Reply
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-10
IN RESPONSE:
rajanKazhmin
Aug 8, 09 7:16 PM CDT
What if the cop is a liberal? Should you still be obedient or would that be treason?
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+6
IN RESPONSE:
Jayster999
Aug 8, 09 7:21 PM CDT
It would be advisable to be chill no matter their sex, color, or whatever. Could be a gay, black, Nazi Scientologist for all I care--I just want to go my way without losing money or getting tossed in the bin.
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-5
IN RESPONSE:
WelcomeTo313
Aug 8, 09 7:31 PM CDT
@jay, You have to admit that there are some cases where the police go way over the line. When a 72 year old women is getting tasered that's crossing the line. I've even seen a video of a cop tasering someone holding a baby for not putting there hands up.
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+9
IN RESPONSE:
rajanKazhmin
Aug 8, 09 7:46 PM CDT
I don't want to misrepresent myself. I have cops in my family. A little respect goes a very long way with the police. It's a tough and dangerous job that needs to be done. I don't agree with all the laws they enforce, but it's their duty. Being a jerk to them will get you nowhere fast.
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