When is an officer justified in using proportional force?

An officer is justified in using proportional force when overcoming unlawful force or resistance. This principle underscores the importance of responding with an appropriate level of force that matches the specific situation at hand. If a suspect is exhibiting aggressive behavior or is physically resisting arrest, the officer must have the ability to counter that force to maintain control and ensure both their safety and the safety of others involved. Proportional response is critical in law enforcement to ensure that the use of force remains justifiable and within the bounds of legality.

The context surrounding other options highlights why they do not align with the justification for using force. For instance, responding to a non-violent suspect or a compliant individual would not warrant force, as their behavior does not necessitate any level of physical response. Similarly, verbal threats might be concerning, but unless they escalate to a physical confrontation, they do not justify the use of force. It is fundamentally about ensuring that the force applied is necessary and appropriate given the circumstances.