What action is NOT classified as retaliation according to the department's policy?

Mildly reducing interaction is not classified as retaliation according to the department's policy because it does not demonstrate aggressive intent or behavior that seeks to punish or harm someone for their actions or decisions. Retaliation typically involves actions that are clearly designed to provoke a negative reaction or create a hostile environment. Open hostility, negative remarks, and official ostracism clearly indicate an intention to harm, intimidate or alienate an individual, which aligns with the definition of retaliatory behavior. Hence, mildly reducing interaction does not meet the threshold of active retaliation and is viewed as a less severe, possibly benign action.