Use of Force and Defensive Tactics
What the exam tests
This domain tests the legal and tactical limits on force, including RSA 627:5, Graham v. Connor objective reasonableness, de-escalation, and deadly force. Expect scenario questions on proportionality and reporting.
Core rules
- Force must be objectively reasonable based on the totality of circumstances, including the subject's actions and the officer's knowledge.
- RSA 627:5 limits deadly force to defending against imminent death or serious bodily injury, or arresting a person the officer has probable cause to believe committed a felony involving the use or threat of deadly force.
- De-escalation, time, distance, cover, and communication should be used when feasible.
- Force must stop when resistance stops.
- Document the subject's actions, the officer's perceptions, and each force option used.
Worked example
A suspect advances with a knife, ignoring commands, within close range. The officer has cover, gives clear warnings, and fires when the suspect closes distance. Reasoning: the suspect's weapon and proximity create imminent risk of death or serious injury, making deadly force objectively reasonable under RSA 627:5. If the suspect drops the knife, force must stop immediately.
Traps
- Using force to punish verbal resistance.
- Failing to reassess when resistance ends.
- Believing deadly force is allowed for any fleeing felon.
- Writing only that force was 'necessary' without describing the facts.