What is the purpose for use of force (UOF)?

What is the purpose for use of force (UOF)?

• A. To punish the suspect
• B. To gain control in pursuit of a legitimate LE objective
• C. To intimidate the subject
• D. To secure evidence

Answer: (B)

The purpose of use of force is to gain control in pursuit of a legitimate law enforcement objective. Force is a tool officers use to achieve lawful goals like detaining a person or protecting lives, and it must be used only when necessary and to the extent required by the situation. The level of force used should be objectively reasonable given the totality of circumstances, and it should be proportional to the threat and combined with de-escalation and compliance efforts when possible. It is not about punishing someone, intimidating a subject, or securing evidence.

The purpose of use of force is to gain control in pursuit of a legitimate law enforcement objective. Force is a tool officers use to achieve lawful goals like detaining a person or protecting lives, and it must be used only when necessary and to the extent required by the situation. The level of force used should be objectively reasonable given the totality of circumstances, and it should be proportional to the threat and combined with de-escalation and compliance efforts when possible. It is not about punishing someone, intimidating a subject, or securing evidence.