Use of Force
The legal frame
Ohio self-defense is governed by ORC 2901.05. Force must be necessary and proportional to the threat. Deadly force is force that creates a substantial risk of death or serious bodily harm (ORC 2901.01(A)(2)). A guard may use deadly force only to prevent imminent death or serious bodily harm to themselves or another. Ohio law places the burden on the prosecution to disprove a self-defense claim beyond a reasonable doubt. The guard's duty to de-escalate and the client's post orders are narrower than the criminal law.
The continuum
Presence, verbal direction, empty-hand control, less-lethal force, deadly force. Move only as far as the subject's actions require, and step down when resistance stops. Graham v. Connor's objective-reasonableness standard governs civil claims: consider the severity of the offense, the immediate threat, and active resistance.
Worked example
An intoxicated patron refuses to leave and raises a fist but does not swing. The guard creates distance, keeps hands up, gives a clear direction, and calls for backup. If the patron swings, the guard may block, step offline, and use a controlled escort or takedown. A baton strike to the head would be deadly force and is not justified by a single missed punch unless the guard reasonably believes imminent serious harm.
Traps
Force as punishment; force to protect a replaceable item; continuing after the threat ends; using a firearm to stop a fleeing shoplifter; ignoring medical signs after restraint.