What does the term “use of force continuum” refer to?

The term "use of force continuum" refers to a guideline for appropriate levels of force used by officers. This continuum establishes a range of actions that law enforcement personnel may use in response to a subject's behavior. The principle behind the continuum is to provide a structured approach that promotes the use of the minimal amount of force necessary to safely handle a situation.

For instance, if an officer encounters a non-compliant individual, they may first use verbal commands. If those are ineffective, the officer may escalate to physical presence or non-lethal techniques, and only as a last resort should they employ lethal force. This hierarchy not only adheres to ethical policing standards, but also aligns with legal expectations regarding the use of force, thereby protecting both the officer and the community they serve. Using such a guideline helps ensure that each response to a given situation is proportional and justified, promoting better outcomes for both law enforcement and the public.