Section 27 outlines the standard of force to be used. Which description matches this standard?

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Multiple Choice

Section 27 outlines the standard of force to be used. Which description matches this standard?

Force used must be proportional to the threat and limited to what is necessary to achieve a legitimate objective. The description that fits this standard is using as much force as reasonably necessary, evaluated through an objective reasonable test. This means an officer should actively assess the situation—considering the level of threat, the resistance offered, and the risk to everyone present—and choose the minimum amount of force required to gain control or stop the threat. It allows for escalation if the threat rises, and de-escalation or alternative options when possible, while never exceeding what is reasonably necessary. This stands in contrast to options that imply using maximum force in every case, which ignores proportionality; or implying force is never used, which would neglect the duty to protect and maintain safety; or treating force as unrestricted, which would ignore the need to limit harm.

Force used must be proportional to the threat and limited to what is necessary to achieve a legitimate objective. The description that fits this standard is using as much force as reasonably necessary, evaluated through an objective reasonable test. This means an officer should actively assess the situation—considering the level of threat, the resistance offered, and the risk to everyone present—and choose the minimum amount of force required to gain control or stop the threat. It allows for escalation if the threat rises, and de-escalation or alternative options when possible, while never exceeding what is reasonably necessary.

This stands in contrast to options that imply using maximum force in every case, which ignores proportionality; or implying force is never used, which would neglect the duty to protect and maintain safety; or treating force as unrestricted, which would ignore the need to limit harm.

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