Six Levels of Force

In order of least to most severe

1. Officer’s Presence & Demeanor

Open Stance, Ready Stance, Defensive Stance. Body language = 55% of communication.

2. Verbal Control

Search talk, persuasion, light control (advice), heavy control (orders). Words & commands = 7%; Voice and inflection = 38%

3. Physical Control

Escort holds, Pain/ pressure compliance, passive counter measures, active counter measures.

4. Serious Physical Control

Cartoid control & Electronic Devices (sometimes under physical control).

5. Impact & Weapons

Verbal warning, hand on baton, present baton, load, feint, & use baton.

6. Deadly Force

Verbal warning, hand on gun, draw gun, point gun, shoot.

Next: Speed Enforcement

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