In recent days, Seattle Police Chief John Diaz has changed his tone regarding irrefutable Department of Justice findings that police have to change the way they use force.

Diaz's first response smacked of full-on denial. How much sense did it make for him to question DOJ's methods and analysis? The result will end up being the same.

Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn clearly told the chief the city would take a different approach.

In an editorial, we advised Diaz to embrace the changes coming with him at the helm -- or not.

Restoring public trust in the police department is essential. Diaz will have to be forceful, open minded and willing to get to the root of the problem. A relatively small number of officers overdo and misuse force and trample on people's constitutional rights.

The next steps involve a more enlightened approach to officer training, relying heavility on de-escalation techniques and other steps to restore relationships with the community.

Overall crime is down in the city, but public trust of officers has tanked precipitously.