Use of Force Flashcards
7 cards from real MTA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Use of Force flashcards as text
Which of the following is considered a 'less-lethal' weapon commonly used by transit police?
Answer: Conducted energy device (e.g., TASER)
Conducted energy devices (CEDs) like TASERs are classified as less-lethal weapons because they are designed to incapacitate without causing death, though they carry some risk.
Positional asphyxia is a risk that can occur when:
Answer: A restrained subject is placed in a position that restricts breathing, such as face-down with weight on their back
Positional asphyxia occurs when a restrained person's position compromises their ability to breathe, particularly when placed face-down with pressure on the back.
An MTA officer uses OC (pepper) spray on a subject. After the subject is secured, the officer should:
Answer: Ensure the subject receives decontamination and medical attention if needed
After OC spray use, officers must provide decontamination (flushing affected areas with water) and monitor the subject, offering medical attention if needed.
Which of the following would most justify an officer's use of deadly force?
Answer: A subject armed with a knife charges at an officer from close range
An armed subject charging at close range presents an imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury, which justifies the use of deadly force under the law.
What does 'totality of circumstances' mean in a use of force evaluation?
Answer: All facts and circumstances known to the officer at the time of the incident are considered together
Courts evaluate use of force based on the totality of all circumstances known to the officer at the moment force was used, not in hindsight.
The 'duty to intervene' requires officers to:
Answer: Step in to stop another officer who is using clearly excessive or unjustified force
The duty to intervene obligates officers who witness another officer using clearly excessive or unlawful force to intervene and stop it.
What is the primary reason warning shots are generally prohibited by most law enforcement agencies?
Answer: They create an uncontrolled projectile danger to bystanders and are tactically unsound
Warning shots are prohibited because the uncontrolled bullet creates serious danger to bystanders, and the decision to fire should be justified by an actual threat requiring deadly force.