Report: Police deadly force incidents decline in California

A new report spurred by national concern over fatal shootings by police shows 146 civilians and three officers died during law enforcement confrontations in California last year, with fewer violent encounters and suspect deaths than in previous years.

It was one of five reports released Tuesday by the state attorney general’s office. California also saw fewer hate crimes, homicides, violent and property crimes even after voters and lawmakers eased criminal penalties.

The number of civilian deaths in police confrontations is down from each of the last two years, but included Stephon Clark, an unarmed black vandalism suspect killed by Sacramento police. His death helped spark an ongoing legislative debate on when officers can use deadly force.

Three officers died, one more than in 2017 but down from eight in 2016.