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Use of Force Options
1. Officer Presence (blue) - appearance, uniform, reputation, physical
stature, number of officers. Many people do not feel that presence is a
force option, but in actual fact, a law enforcement officer’s mere presence
often influences or controls a person’s behavior.
2. Communication (Dialogue) (green) - verbal skills in conjunction with
non-verbal skills. Suggestions, advice, directions continuing through to
loud, repetitive commands, in conjunction with facial expressions, stance,
eye contact, etc. Dialogue is used continually with the rest of the force
options. In fact, an extremely high percentage of all encounters with
offenders are resolved at this level.
3. Physical Control Soft / Hard (yellow) - there are various sub-levels of
force within the empty hand option. Sub-levels of force include:
○ Escort Position (implied force)
○ Superior Physical Strength (size or numbers)
○ Balance Displacement Techniques (throws, takedowns)
○ Pain Compliance Techniques (joint locks, pressure points, etc.)
○ Empty Hand or Weaponless Impact (stuns, strikes & kicks, using
various parts of the anatomy)
4. Intermediate Weapons/Weapons of Opportunity (orange) - again there
are various sub-levels in this force option. This option has relevance to
modern day policing as technology is always inventing new methods for
less than lethal force. Attempting to categorize each intermediate weapon
would be confusing and unnecessary, as the Use of Force Model would
become lengthy and constantly changing. This option represents an
intermediate group of weapons between empty hand control and firearms.
Sub-levels of force include:
○ Oleoresin Capsicum Spray (implied force, targeted spray)
○ Flash Bang Diversion (deployment)
○ Tear Gas (warning, deployment)
○ Impact Weapons (implied force & motor dysfunction strikes)
○ Police Dogs (implied & biting)
○ Arwen Gun (implied force & impact)
○ Police Vehicles (implied & impact)
○ Taser (implied & impact)
5. Lethal Force (red) - this includes the sidearm, shotgun, and various
Tactics and Rescue Unit firearms. It would also include any other weapon
or technique used in a manner that is likely or intended to cause Grievous
RNC - Summons 1 - Documents
CIDDD Exhibit P-0624 Page 9