In a bid to improve officer safety, the Berlin police leadership is implementing new strategies aimed at better protecting their personnel from individuals known for knife-related offenses. Under the latest initiative, individuals found in possession of a knife or involved in knife-related crimes will be flagged in the police database with a 'personalized alert.' This raises concerns about the potential for innocent individuals to be inaccurately categorized. Recent analyses conducted by the State Criminal Police Office (LKA) revealed that only a small fraction of individuals who committed knife offenses have been recorded in the police operational system, POLIKS, as 'armed.' This information emerged from an internal memo, highlighting the need for better documentation of knife-related incidents. The new regulations in POLIKS, which were introduced in January, require that not only the incidents involving knives be recorded but also specific individuals associated with these incidents. Following a case-by-case assessment, anyone previously stopped while carrying a knife can be designated as 'armed,' even if the knife in question is not prohibited under the Weapons Act. Concerns have been raised within police ranks regarding the implications of this policy. Officers fear that individuals merely carrying common items like fruit knives or pocket knives could be unfairly labeled as 'armed' in the database. One anonymous officer expressed apprehension about the broad application of these guidelines, drawing parallels to the controversial 'Violent Offenders in Sports' database, which has faced criticism for including individuals who believe they have been wrongly recorded. In response to these concerns, a spokesperson for the Berlin police emphasized that the labeling of an innocent knife owner will not be an automatic process. The spokesperson clarified that stricter criteria will be applied, ensuring that only those involved in serious offenses, such as threats, violations of the Weapons Act, attempted homicide, or aggravated assault, will be classified as risk individuals. Furthermore, the police are not limiting their efforts to digital tracking alone. Additional training seminars have been instituted, focusing on injury management and adjustments to firearm training as part of the ongoing education and skill enhancement of police officers. This initiative reflects an increasing recognition of the risks associated with knife violence, particularly in urban areas. The measures aim to equip officers with the necessary information and skills to respond effectively and safely when encountering individuals with a history of knife-related offenses. As the situation with knife crime evolves, the Berlin police are committed to ensuring that their personnel are adequately prepared and protected from potential threats.