When is physical force considered appropriate during a police encounter?

Physical force during a police encounter is deemed appropriate primarily when a suspect poses a direct threat to the officer or others. This principle is grounded in the necessity for officers to protect themselves and the public from immediate harm. The use of force must be proportional to the threat. For instance, if an individual is armed or displaying aggressive behavior that indicates they may inflict harm, an officer is justified in using physical force to neutralize that threat and ensure safety.

In instances where officers feel uncomfortable or when verbal commands are not followed, the situation may not necessarily warrant the use of physical force. Officer discomfort can stem from various factors, but it does not automatically justify an escalation to physical force. Furthermore, there are protocols and de-escalation techniques available to law enforcement that should be employed before resorting to physical measures. High-speed chases, while inherently risky and requiring officer judgment, do not automatically warrant physical force against a suspect. Each scenario must be assessed based on the context and immediate threats presented.