What does the "use of force" continuum provide?

The "use of force" continuum serves as a guideline for law enforcement officers to apply varying levels of force based on the situation they encounter. It is designed to help officers assess the appropriate response needed to control a situation, taking into account factors such as the level of threat posed by a suspect and the behavior exhibited during an encounter. This continuum helps to ensure that officers use only the necessary amount of force to achieve their objectives, thereby promoting accountability and minimizing excessive force incidents.

The continuum categorizes different levels of force, ranging from mere presence or verbal commands to forceful physical techniques and, ultimately, lethal force, depending on the circumstances. By having a structured approach, officers can make informed decisions consistent with departmental policies and legal standards. This framework is crucial in training and operational scenarios, as it encourages a measured response that emphasizes de-escalation where possible.

While aspects related to police actions, rankings, and prohibited techniques might be essential in a broader policy or training context, they do not specifically capture the primary function of the "use of force" continuum, which is to guide officers in varying their responses appropriately according to the dynamics of each specific encounter.