What is the basis for determining when force can be used by law enforcement?

The determination of when force can be used by law enforcement is based on the totality of circumstances surrounding each specific situation. This concept takes into account all the relevant facts and context regarding the incident, including the behavior of the suspect, the environment, the nature of the crime, and any immediate threats to the officer or public safety.

When evaluating the circumstances, officers must consider various factors, such as the level of resistance from a suspect and the amount of danger perceived at the moment. This holistic approach allows law enforcement to make better judgments about the appropriate level of force necessary to handle a situation effectively and safely.

While officer discretion and a use of force continuum are important elements of law enforcement protocols, they must be applied within the framework of the totality of circumstances to ensure that the response is justified and proportionate to the situation. The type of crime being investigated can inform context but does not solely dictate the level of force used, as the specific circumstances of each encounter vary widely.