What is the purpose of a use of force continuum?

The purpose of a use of force continuum is fundamentally to offer a structured framework that guides law enforcement officers in determining the appropriate level of force to apply in various situations. This continuum outlines a series of responses that police can employ based on the level of threat posed by a subject and the circumstances at hand. For instance, it often begins with non-physical options such as verbal commands and escalates through various levels of force, ending with lethal force if absolutely necessary.

By clearly defining these levels, the use of force continuum helps ensure that officers can make informed decisions that align with legal standards and departmental policies while prioritizing de-escalation whenever possible. This is essential not only for the safety of officers and the public but also for maintaining accountability and mitigating instances of excessive force.

Other options, such as inventing new equipment or suggesting community policing policies, do not align with the fundamental goal of establishing a clear response strategy to potential threats encountered in the line of duty. Similarly, outlining disciplinary actions relates to post-incident responses rather than preemptively guiding the use of force in operational scenarios.