What does the "use of force continuum" help guide officers on?

• A. Investigating crimes thoroughly
• B. Choosing the right communication techniques
• C. Determining the appropriate level of force
• D. Organizing community events

Answer: (C)

The use of force continuum is a decision-making framework that guides officers to match the level of force to a subject’s resistance and threat. It starts with presence and verbal commands, then moves through progressively more controlling methods, such as soft restraints and holds, followed by harder control and less-lethal options, and only then, deadly force if absolutely necessary. The idea is to apply the least amount of force necessary to gain compliance while protecting everyone’s safety, staying within legal and Departmental guidelines, and providing a clear basis for actions taken and later review. This helps officers de-escalate when possible and escalate when needed, rather than guessing or overreacting.

Investigating crimes thoroughly isn’t about choosing force levels, and selecting communication techniques is about de-escalation and information exchange rather than the physical force decision framework. Organizing community events is unrelated to how force is assessed and applied.