Use of Force Continuum: Training for Law Enforcement Officers and Civilians

The Levels of Use of Force Continuum

A use of force continuum includes varying levels of force that officers can follow to escalate or de-escalate the use of force in situations when force is justified. The levels of the use of force continuum vary, as many agencies have created their own use of force continuum. However, most continuums include levels similar to this:

Presence of an Officer

The mere presence of an officer can de-escalate a situation. This is the preferred method on the continuum, as it involves no use of force.

Verbalization

Verbalization includes the use of verbal orders, rather than physical force, to stop a crime or prevent threatening situations from escalating. Verbal orders should be clear and understandable, non-threatening, and calmly, but firmly, spoken. These verbal commands may include simple phrases such as “stop” or “don’t move,” or more complex directional phrases.

Empty-hand Control

Empty-hand control is the use of bodily force, rather than weapons, to gain control of a threatening situation. This includes a “soft technique” such as holding or restraining an individual. If a “soft technique” is not effective, officers may use a “hard technique” which includes kicking or punching to restrain an individual. This is the lowest level of physical force, and has a lower likelihood of causing damage to the subject.

Less Lethal Options

Less lethal options are intended to confuse or incapacitate an individual, allowing the officer to gain control of the situation without the use of deadly force. These options may include a baton, a Taser, pepper spray, or other chemical sprays. This should only be used when other methods of force have been ineffective, as they have a higher chance of causing more severe damage to the suspect or to bystanders.

Lethal Force

Lethal weapons should only be used when the suspect poses a threat of death or serious injury to an officer or other individual.

FAQs About Use of Force Continuum

What Does Deadly Force Mean?

Deadly force is the use of a lethal weapon, such as a firearm. It is the highest level on the use of force continuum, and should only be used in life-threatening situations.

When Can Police Use Force?

Every situation varies, but the use of force continuum offers police and other security professionals guidelines on when use of force is justified. Generally, officers are permitted to use force when it is necessary for self-defense or defense of others, but there is no hard rule on when police officers can use force.

What Is Reasonable Force?

Generally, reasonable force is defined as the amount of force necessary to protect oneself or one’s property. The term “reasonable force” comes from a U.S. Supreme Court case ruling focused on how to judge whether a specific use of force was excessive. The Court ruled that, according to the Fourth Amendment, force is justified when a “reasonable” officer on the scene would judge the force necessary.

Why Is Use of Force Training Important For Law Enforcement Officers?

Use of Force Continuum training is important in helping law enforcement officers defuse and de-escalate situations before they become life-threatening. The training is crucial in preventing unnecessary uses of force by teaching law enforcement officers when specific levels of force are necessary or justified. At its core, use of force training helps officers keep potentially-threatening situations under control, thereby maintaining a higher level of safety.