According to the use of force continuum, what level should an officer use based on the threat posed by an offender?

In the context of the use of force continuum, law enforcement officers are trained to match their level of force with the level of threat presented by a suspect or offender. Choosing to use a level of force that is one level above the threat being posed allows officers to effectively respond to the situation while still maintaining appropriate control and minimizing unnecessary escalation. This principle helps ensure that the response is both tactical and measured.

If the threat level of the offender increases—such as them becoming aggressive or trying to resist arrest—then using a level of force that is one step above allows officers to effectively neutralize that threat without resorting to excessive force. This approach is designed to provide a balanced response that aligns with the operational guidelines for law enforcement, thereby promoting officer safety and the safety of the public while adhering to legal and ethical standards governing use of force.