Which type of force would using a baton against an aggressive suspect be classified as?

Using a baton against an aggressive suspect is classified as non-lethal force because batons are designed to incapacitate a suspect without intending to cause death or serious bodily injury. Non-lethal force encompasses methods of control that aim to manage a situation while minimizing the risk of permanent harm.

In law enforcement, non-lethal options are often employed when a suspect poses a threat but officers need to avoid causing severe injuries. This aligns with the principle of proportionality in the use of force, which dictates that the level of force used must correspond to the threat posed by the suspect.

In contrast, other classifications like deadly force are typically associated with actions that could result in death or serious bodily harm, and minimal force would suggest an even lighter approach not appropriate for an aggressive suspect. Excessive force refers to the use of more force than necessary, which is not applicable here since the baton is being used as an appropriate response to the aggressive behavior of the suspect. Thus, classifying the action as non-lethal force reinforces the goal of maintaining control while ensuring the safety of all parties involved.