The primary objective of defensive tactics is to enable officers to protect themselves, control suspects, and de-escalate potentially dangerous situations while minimizing harm.

The use of force is justified when it is necessary to protect officers or others from imminent harm or to make an arrest when the suspect poses a threat to public safety.

De-escalation techniques aim to calm down potentially volatile situations, reduce the need for force, and allow officers to peacefully resolve conflicts and ensure public safety.

The concept of proportionality in the use of force dictates that the level of force applied should be reasonable and appropriate based on the severity of the situation and the threat posed by the suspect.

Training in defensive tactics equips officers with the skills and knowledge to respond effectively to dangerous situations, ensuring they use force appropriately and safely.

Less-lethal force involves techniques and tools, such as tasers or pepper spray, that are designed to incapacitate a suspect without causing permanent harm or death.

Officers assess the level of threat by considering factors such as the suspect’s behavior, weapon availability, and the environment to determine the appropriate level of force.

The use of force continuum helps officers make decisions based on the situation, ensuring that the level of force is appropriate and proportional to the threat presented.

Using excessive force can lead to legal consequences, damage to public trust, and harm to individuals, potentially resulting in lawsuits, disciplinary actions, and loss of credibility for officers and agencies.