Use of Force and Defensive Tactics
Use of Force and Defensive Tactics
This domain tests whether you can apply objective reasonableness, choose force options, de-escalate when feasible, and document the totality. Missouri officers work under Graham v. Connor, Tennessee v. Garner, Chapter 563, and agency policy. Policy may be stricter than constitutional minimums.
Core rules
- Objective reasonableness: judge force from the perspective of a reasonable officer on scene, considering severity of the crime, immediate threat, and active resistance or flight.
- Deadly force: permitted only when the officer reasonably believes it is necessary to prevent imminent death or serious bodily injury, or to prevent escape of a fleeing felon who poses a significant threat.
- De-escalation: use time, distance, cover, communication, and tactical repositioning when feasible.
- Duty after force: render aid, request medical help, and report all force and injuries.
Worked example. A man with a knife advances from 20 feet. Officers have cover, issue commands, and use a less-lethal option when he closes distance; when he continues, deadly force is used. Reasoning: the threat is imminent and severe; warnings and less-lethal attempts show feasibility analysis; the report must separate each force decision.
Traps
- Claiming "least amount of force" as an absolute legal rule.
- Judging with hindsight instead of the officer's on-scene knowledge.
- Using force after the threat has ended.
- Failing to document witness statements, injuries, and medical aid.
- Treating de-escalation as required in every split-second situation.
Exam focus
Identify the threat, the available options, the reason for the chosen option, and the post-force duties.