Use of Force Continuum Flashcards

A subject passively resists by going limp when the officer tries to escort them. Which technique is MOST appropriate?

Answer: Using a pain compliance hold or carry technique

Going limp is passive resistance, which is best addressed with pain compliance holds or carry techniques before escalating to impact weapons or less-lethal devices.

Which scenario best justifies the use of deadly force by an armed security officer?

Answer: A subject pointing a loaded firearm at a bystander

Deadly force is justified when there is an imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm to the officer or others, such as a suspect aiming a gun at a bystander.

The concept of 'disparity of force' refers to:

Answer: Circumstances where a size, age, or numerical disadvantage justifies a higher level of force

Disparity of force acknowledges that when a subject has a significant physical advantage, a lower level of response may be insufficient and a higher level justified.

An officer uses force against a subject who later turns out to be unarmed. The force may still be justified if:

Answer: The officer reasonably believed the subject posed an imminent threat at the time

Justification is evaluated based on what a reasonable officer would have believed at the time of the incident, not on facts discovered afterward.

Which of the following is considered the LOWEST level on most use-of-force continuums?

Answer: Officer presence

Officer presence — the mere appearance of a uniformed officer — is the lowest and least intrusive level on the use-of-force continuum.

A security officer who continues to use force after a subject is fully restrained and no longer resisting may be charged with:

Answer: Excessive use of force or assault

Force applied after a subject is fully controlled and no longer poses a threat is excessive and can result in criminal charges and civil liability.

What does 'force multiplier' mean in the context of an armed security officer's threat assessment?

Answer: Any factor — such as a weapon or multiple attackers — that increases a subject's capacity to cause harm

A force multiplier is anything that amplifies a subject's threat, such as a weapon, numbers advantage, or special physical ability, potentially justifying a higher force response.