Which model is used to determine appropriate use of force in policing?

The Use of Force Continuum is a model that outlines the different levels of force that law enforcement officers can apply based on the situation they encounter. This continuum typically begins with a verbal command, escalating through various levels of physical force, depending on the resistance and the threat level presented by a suspect.

This model is significant because it provides officers with a framework to make decisions about the level of force that is justified at any given moment. It emphasizes the need for proportionality in force application, ensuring that the response is aligned with the behavior of the subject. By following this model, officers can also articulate their decision-making processes if called to account for their actions, thereby enhancing accountability and transparency within policing practices.

The other options, while they may reference various protocols or guides in law enforcement, do not specifically focus on the systematic approach to force application like the Use of Force Continuum does. This model remains the most widely recognized standard for justifying and evaluating the use of force in policing scenarios.