3.110 Use Of Force Policy Flashcards
What is the main policy of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department regarding the use of force?
Officers hold the highest regard for the dignity and liberty of all persons and place minimal reliance upon the use of force.
Define ‘de-escalation’ in the context of police use of force.
An officer’s actions to slow down, stabilize, and resolve an incident as safely as possible by reducing danger through verbal persuasion, tactics, resources, and transitioning through force options.
What is meant by ‘imminent threat’?
An impending violent act, harm, or resistance that will likely occur if not instantly confronted or addressed.
List the levels of control as defined in the Use of Force Policy.
- Low-level force
- Intermediate force
- Deadly force
What does ‘objectively reasonable’ refer to in the use of force?
A standard of force viewed from the perspective of a reasonable officer, based on the totality of the circumstances at the moment.
What is the recovery position?
The placement of a subject’s body in a manner that does not restrict breathing or obstruct the airway, i.e., on their side or upright.
What are the criteria for officers to use deadly force according to Nevada Revised Statutes?
- Protect themselves or others from imminent threat of death or substantial bodily injury
- Prevent the escape of a fleeing felon who poses an imminent threat to human life
What should officers consider when determining the appropriateness of force?
- Severity of the crime
- Immediate threat to safety
- Subject’s resistance to arrest
- Influence of drugs/alcohol
- Time available for decision-making
- Availability of resources
- Proximity to weapons
- Environmental factors
What is the duty to intervene?
Any officer present must intercede to prevent the use of unreasonable force by another officer and report observations to a supervisor.
Fill in the blank: Officers will document the use of force incident in writing no later than _______.
[10 days]
What medical attention must be summoned after specific use of force applications?
- Baton strikes to the head, neck, chest, spine, kidneys, or groin
- Canine bites
- Electronic control device probe strikes to the head, neck, chest, or groin
- Oleoresin capsicum spray exposure to the facial area
What is the purpose of the Use of Force Model?
To provide officers with a range of options during an encounter or confrontation, requiring continual assessment of the subject’s actions.
What does the term ‘force transitions’ refer to?
The movement, progression, or reduction from the application of one force type to another.
What should officers do if they observe signs of medical distress in a subject after using force?
Continuously monitor the subject and immediately summon medical attention.
What is the stance on retaliation against officers who intervene to stop unreasonable force?
The department will not retaliate against or discipline an employee who intervenes.
What are ‘approved weapons’ as per the policy?
Weapons meeting department specifications for which officers receive proficiency and safety training.
Explain the term ‘substantial bodily injury’.
An injury that creates a substantial risk of death, causes serious permanent disfigurement, or results in prolonged loss or impairment of the functioning of any body part.
What is the primary goal of an officer when determining the use of force?
To de-escalate the situation and bring it under control in a safe manner
What should officers consider regarding a subject’s non-compliance?
Reasons may include medical conditions, mental or physical impairments, language barriers, emotional crises, or drug interactions
Define ‘Compliant’ in the context of levels of resistance.
A person who acknowledges direction or lawful orders given and offers no resistance
What characterizes an ‘Obstructive’ subject?
Uncooperative actions intended to prevent an officer from placing them in custody without intent to harm
What actions define an ‘Assaultive’ subject?
Demonstrating intent to harm through actions like punching, kicking, or using weapons
What constitutes ‘Life-Threatening’ actions by a subject?
Actions likely to result in death or substantial bodily injury, such as the imminent use of a firearm
List the three levels of control in use of force.
- Low Level Force
- Intermediate Force
- Deadly Force
What are examples of ‘Low Level Force’?
- Officer presence
- Verbal communication
- Empty hand tactics
- Handcuffing compliant arrestees
What types of actions are included in ‘Intermediate Force’?
- Empty hand tactics (strikes, kicks)
- Baton/Impact tools
- Oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray
- Electronic control device (ECD)
What is defined as ‘Deadly Force’?
Force likely to result in death or substantial bodily injury
What are the elements of deadly force that an officer must articulate?
- Ability
- Opportunity
- Imminent Jeopardy
- Preclusion
Define ‘Ability’ in the context of deadly force.
The means or capability to cause substantial bodily injury or death
What does ‘Opportunity’ refer to regarding a subject’s actions?
The position to effectively resist an officer’s control or to use force upon the officer or others
What does ‘Imminent Jeopardy’ mean?
The officer’s reasonable belief that the subject poses an immediate threat to life
What is ‘Preclusion’ in the context of using deadly force?
Lesser alternatives have been reasonably considered and exhausted before using deadly force
What are the general rules regarding the use of force?
- Use only department-approved weapons
- Communicate with other officers before using a weapon
- Issue a warning to the subject if feasible
True or False: Chokeholds are permitted in any situation.
False
What should officers do before using a baton or impact tool?
Use reasonable care to avoid striking sensitive areas like the head or neck
What is Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) Spray classified as?
A non-lethal agent causing inflammation of skin and mucus membranes
Fill in the blank: The use of physical force solely to stop a person from _______ is not permitted.
swallowing a substance
What is OC spray?
A non-lethal agent which causes inflammation of the skin and mucus membranes.
OC spray is used for crowd control and self-defense by law enforcement.
What is the level of control for OC spray?
Intermediate Force.
It is classified as an intermediate force option in use of force policies.
Under what conditions can OC spray be used on a handcuffed subject?
Only if the subject is displaying assaultive resistance.
When is OC spray prohibited from use?
On a driver of a vehicle or inside a patrol vehicle.
This is to prevent unintended harm to the driver or passengers.
In what situation can OC spray be used during protests?
When authorized by an incident commander in response to imminent threat of harm.
What does ECD stand for?
Electronic Control Device.
What is the primary function of an ECD?
To disrupt the body’s ability to communicate messages from the brain to the muscles.
What are the three applications of the ECD?
- Spark Display
- Touch Stun
- Probe Mode
What is the maintenance requirement for ECDs?
Officers will recharge ECD batteries and replace cartridges when required.
What is prohibited regarding the use of ECDs?
The intentional use of more than one ECD simultaneously on the same subject.
When is the use of canine approved?
When there is probable cause to believe a subject has committed a violent or felony crime.
What is the level of control for canine use?
Low Level Force when on leash, Intermediate Force with bite.
What must handlers do when a person is injured by a patrol dog?
Notify a supervisor and advise Dispatch.
What is ramming in police use of force?
The utilization of a police vehicle to intentionally hit another vehicle.
What is the purpose of blocking with a police vehicle?
To prevent an avenue of escape by the safe placement of a police vehicle.
What are the circumstances warranting the use of a PIT as deadly force?
- Continued movement of the pursued vehicle would place others in danger of substantial bodily injury or death.
- Other tactical options have been considered and rejected as impractical.
What is the definition of a Low Lethality Shotgun?
An orange-colored, department-issued Remington 870 designed to fire less-lethal rounds.
What are the approved uses for projectile weapons?
Against persons who are armed, have access to a weapon, or pose an imminent threat to safety.
What is the storage requirement for the 40mm specialty impact weapon?
It will only be carried in designated tactical vehicles and stored in the issued bag.
What defines directed rifle patrol?
Open carry/overt carry deployment where the rifle will remain in the cruiser ready condition.
What are the inspection requirements for firearms?
Ensure the weapon is loaded with department duty ammunition, not mixed with practice ammunition.
What is the level of control for handguns, shotguns, and rifles?
Deadly Force when shots are fired.
What are the authorized firearms for officers according to LVMPD 8.188?
Handgun, Shotgun, Rifle
Refer to LVMPD 8.188 for details on authorized firearms, associated equipment, and required training.
What is the inspection requirement for firearms?
Ensure the weapon is loaded with department duty ammunition, not mixed with practice ammunition.
What must an officer know regarding their firearm?
How many rounds are loaded in their firearm and each magazine.
Under what circumstances are officers authorized to fire their weapons?
- To protect themselves or others from imminent threat of death or substantial bodily injury
- To prevent the escape of a fleeing felon who poses an imminent threat to human life
When should officers cease fire?
When the perceived deadly threat is no longer present.
What should officers do whenever feasible before discharging their firearm?
- Identify themselves and state their intention to shoot
- Control their rate of fire and assess every round fired
- Evaluate obtaining a better tactical advantage and backdrop
What is a significant tactical consideration for officers when selecting a firearm?
Distance, available cover, and the tactical situation presented.
What is the recommended shot placement for officers?
Center mass for maximum stopping effectiveness and minimal danger to bystanders.
What are officers not authorized to do with their firearms?
- Discharge warning shots
- Discharge if a bystander may be injured.
True or False: Officers can use flashlights mounted to firearms for routine searches.
False.
What are the risks of shooting at or from a moving vehicle?
- Ineffective
- Dangerous
- Unpredictable
Under what conditions can officers discharge their firearm at a moving vehicle?
- If a person in the vehicle is an imminent deadly threat
- If the driver is using the vehicle as a weapon
What should officers do when drawing or exhibiting a firearm?
Exercise care and caution based on the tactical situation.
What is the extreme circumstance under which an officer may place their firearm against a person?
If the person is an imminent threat of death or substantial bodily injury.
What is the approved use for officers to humanely euthanize injured or dangerous animals?
- After attempts to request assistance from responsible agencies
- If the animal’s owner is present and does not wish to transport the animal
- When the animal is so badly injured as to require humane relief from suffering.
What factors should be considered for rifle deployment?
- Potential for deadly force
- Distance and use of cover
- Barricaded suspect
- Pre-approved deployment
What is required when an officer deploys a rifle?
- Announce the deployment via radio
- Use a two-officer team whenever possible
What must be done after the use of force incidents?
Investigate to determine appropriateness and address any performance or misconduct issues.
What constitutes a reportable force incident?
Any use of force resulting in injury, complaint of injury, or use of force greater than low-level force.
What should a supervisor do in response to a reportable use of force incident?
- Respond immediately
- Determine the level of force used
- Conduct an investigation
- Ensure documentation and evidence collection
What is the role of the Critical Incident Review Team (CIRT)?
- Complete Use of Force Reports on officer involved shootings
- Complete Firearm Discharge Reports on any discharge at a person.
What is the definition of ‘substantial bodily injury’?
An injury that creates a substantial risk of death or causes serious permanent disfigurement.
What should be included in a Use of Force Report?
- Detailed description of the level of force used
- Effectiveness of force and the eight objectively reasonable force factors.
What is the purpose of the Use of Force Administrative Review?
To ensure accuracy and completeness of force applications and confirm corrective actions if necessary.
What is the timeline for approving the application of force in Blue Team?
Within 30 days of the date of incident.
What does the Internal Oversight and Constitutional Policing (IOCP) Bureau provide monthly?
A report listing all Use of Force Reports that have exceeded the 30-day limitation.
What is the policy regarding investigations of deadly force incidents?
To conduct a fair, impartial, and thorough investigation for the officer, department, and community.
What must an officer do when they discharge a firearm?
- Ensure life safety
- Ensure the scene is safe and secure
- Notify Dispatch immediately
- Request medical assistance if needed
What should off-duty officers do if they are involved in an incident?
- Inform Dispatch via radio or 911
- Ensure they are identifiable as officers
- Obey commands from first-responding officers
What is the role of the first-arriving supervisor at a use of deadly force incident?
Act as incident commander and ensure medical attention and crime scene security.
What is the Public Safety Statement (PSS)?
A series of questions asked of the shooting officer to assess immediate threats to public safety.
Who conducts the Public Safety Statement if a supervisor is involved in a shooting?
The senior officer on scene.
What does the Force Investigation Team (FIT) respond to?
- Any use of deadly force
- Significant violent crimes involving department members
- In-custody deaths
- Other jurisdiction requests meeting FIT criteria
What is the function of the Critical Incident Review Team (CIRT)?
To conduct non-criminal, administrative examinations of deadly force and significant bodily injury incidents.
What does CIRT investigate?
- Use of deadly force or resulting in death
- Intentional discharge of firearms on duty
- High-risk incidents like active shooter situations
What must occur at the initial briefing after a deadly force incident?
Designate an operationally secure location and ensure only essential personnel attend.
What is the purpose of the scene walkthrough?
To assist investigators in understanding the scene and identifying physical evidence.
How long after an incident can FIT conduct a voluntary interview with the subject officer?
A minimum of 48 hours after the incident.
What must happen if a suspect is transported for medical treatment post-incident?
An officer will accompany the subject to preserve the chain of evidence.
What does the Administrative Leave Notice involve?
It is completed for any incident involving the use of deadly force or resulting in substantial bodily injury or death.
What role does the Police Employee Assistance Program (PEAP) play in critical incidents?
Arrange psychological counseling for subject officers and witness officers.
True or False: The FIT supervisor can question a subject officer about the incident facts without allowing them to consult with a representative.
False.
Fill in the blank: The officer must not modify, load, or unload any firearm used prior to the _______.
[countdown by FIT].
What must be secured as evidence after a deadly force incident?
The subject’s clothing and personal effects
Medical personnel must be made aware to secure these items.
How should interviews with suspects or involved persons in deadly force incidents be documented?
Video or audio recorded
If hospitalized, a FIT detective arranges for a timely interview.
Under what circumstances can a subject leave after a negligent discharge or inappropriate use of deadly force?
When no reasonable suspicion or probable cause exists to warrant a detention
Timely and consensual efforts will be made to identify the subject.
Who should media inquiries be referred to?
The IOCP bureau commander or designee
The PIO’s office prepares the written media release after the scene investigation.
How long after a deadly force incident will the identity of involved officers be withheld from the public?
48 hours
This is to ensure proper investigation and coordination with the media.
What will FIT provide during the Executive Staff 72-Hour Briefing?
Details of the criminal investigation related to the use of deadly force
The date, time, and location of the briefing is determined by the Office of the Sheriff.
What is the role of CIRT during the criminal investigation conducted by FIT?
To receive copies of reports as they become available
CIRT does not share information compelled under Garrity with FIT.
Who chairs the Use of Force Policy Committee?
An Assistant Sheriff
The committee reviews the Use of Force Policy annually.
What types of members are included in the Use of Force Policy Committee?
General Counsel, Deputy Chief of Professional Standards Division, Captain of Internal Oversight and Constitutional Policing Bureau, Executive lieutenant/captain of Office of the Sheriff
The composition is designated by the Sheriff.
Non-uniformed commissioned personnel the rank of l ____________ and below are required to carry at least one intermediate force option (baton, oleoresin capsicum [OC] spray, or electronic control device [ECD]) on their person when on-duty
lieutenant
Since the use of patrol dogs may inflame a volatile situation, the department places limitations on their use for crowd control, civil disorders, or riot situations. In such an occurrence, the canine teams may be dispatched in a standby status. Any subsequent use of canine is only authorized by a _______________ or higher for extreme emergencies.
lieutenant
Directed Rifle Patrol must be authorized by the Events Planning Lieutenant or _______?
captain assigned as the incident commander
When with CIRT complete a UOF report when a low lethality option was used?
At the discretion of the CIRT lieutenant
When investigating a use of non-deadly force, a Lieutenant will: Review the supervisor’s investigation and all attached documentation, to include ___________ and evidence in Blue Team to ensure _____________ and completeness.
video footage, accuracy.
The FIT lieutenant will coordinate with the Sheriff _____________ and __________to prepare a formal media release to the general public after the Executive Staff 72-Hour Briefing.
Undersheriff, PIO
It is the policy of this department that officers hold the highest regard for the ________ and liberty of all persons and place minimal reliance upon the use of force.
Dignity
The department respects the sanctity of every human life, and the application of deadly force is a measure to be employed in the ____________ where lesser means of force have failed or ___________________.
most extreme circumstances, could not be reasonably considered.
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department is committed to protecting people, their property and rights while providing the best in___________ and service.
public safety
The proper use of force is essential for ensuring ___________ and for building trust in the community.
impartial policing
Non-uniformed commissioned personnel the rank of l ____________ and below are required to carry at least one intermediate force option (baton, oleoresin capsicum [OC] spray, or electronic control device [ECD]) on their person when on-duty
lieutenant
Since the use of patrol dogs may inflame a volatile situation, the department places limitations on their use for crowd control, civil disorders, or riot situations. In such an occurrence, the canine teams may be dispatched in a standby status. Any subsequent use of canine is only authorized by a _______________ or higher for extreme emergencies.
lieutenant
Directed Rifle Patrol must be authorized by the Events Planning Lieutenant or _______?
captain assigned as the incident commander
When with CIRT complete a UOF report when a low lethality option was used?
At the discretion of the CIRT lieutenant
When investigating a use of non-deadly force, a Lieutenant will: Review the supervisor’s investigation and all attached documentation, to include ___________ and evidence in Blue Team to ensure _____________ and completeness.
video footage, accuracy.
The FIT lieutenant will coordinate with the Sheriff _____________ and __________to prepare a formal media release to the general public after the Executive Staff 72-Hour Briefing.
Undersheriff, PIO
It is the policy of this department that officers hold the highest regard for the ________ and liberty of all persons and place minimal reliance upon the use of force.
Dignity
The department respects the sanctity of every human life, and the application of deadly force is a measure to be employed in the ____________ where lesser means of force have failed or ___________________.
most extreme circumstances, could not be reasonably considered.
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department is committed to protecting people, their property and rights while providing the best in___________ and service.
public safety
The proper use of force is essential for ensuring ___________ and for building trust in the community.
impartial policing
Officers must remain mindful that they derive their authority from ____________ and that unreasonable force degrades the legitimacy of that authority.
the community
_______________, the appropriate exercise of discretion, and the ______________________________ will always be the foundation of officer decision-making in the broad range of possible use of force situations.
Sound judgment, adherence to department policy
An objective standard of force viewed from the perspective of a reasonable officer, without the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, and based on the totality of the circumstances presented at the moment the force is used, is?
Objectively Reasonable
Officers may use force to protect themselves or others, ________________, to effect a lawful detention, ___________, or to conduct a lawful search
overcome resistance, a lawful arrest
Officers _______ give a warning, if feasible, before the use of deadly force.
will
Officers are legally authorized to use deadly force to effect an arrest when in compliance with Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) and the legal standards under Tennessee v. Garner (1985) to:
- Protect themselves or others from what is reasonably believed to be an imminent threat of death or substantial bodily injury.
- Prevent the escape of a fleeing felon who the officer has probable cause to believe has committed a violent felony crime and is an imminent threat to human life if escape should occur.
In choosing a force option, officers will consider the ___________ and severity of the crime.
nature
The reasonableness of a particular use of force must be judged from the perspective of a ___________, rather than with 20/20 vision of hindsight.
judicious officer on the scene
When reasonable, officers should gather information about the incident, assess the risks, assemble resources and equipment, __________________, and communicate and coordinate a response.
attempt to slow momentum
Any officer present, __________ , and observing another officer using force that is clearly beyond what is justified or objectively reasonable under the circumstances will, _____________, intercede to prevent the use of unreasonable force
regardless of rank, when in a safe position to do so
If the supervisor is using unjustified force, the officer will report it to the next level of supervision. If the observing officer is a supervisor, they will _________________.
issue a direct order to stop the violation.
Reporting officer will document in writing no later than _______ after the occurrence:
10 days
Officers will be mindful that persons who are in a prolonged physical encounter with officers may be _____________
at an increased risk of medical distress
Officers __________ render medical aid within the scope of their departmental training and skill level while awaiting the next level of medical care.
should
True or False:
Officers will not use an ECD or projectile weapon when the subject is in an elevated position where a fall is likely to result in substantial bodily injury or death unless the subject displays life-threatening resistance. This is particularly important when utilizing the ECD.
True
Supervisor Responsibility for PIT:
Immediately acknowledge the officer’s ____________________.
Order discontinuation of the PIT when the _______________________
notification over the radio
necessity for apprehension is outweighed by the dangers of the PIT
Any contact that causes damage or a collision between a department vehicle and another vehicle will also be reported as a traffic incident on a __________________.
Vehicle Incident Report
PIT successful or attempts require?
UOF report and a pursuit report
Any use of force which results in injury or complaint of injury, complaint of continuing pain, or any use of force greater than low-level force.
Reportable Force
The department investigates and reviews all reportable use of force incidents to determine the appropriateness of the application of force and to address any performance or ______________
misconduct issues
If the next level of supervision in the officer’s chain of command is unavailable, the supervisor involved in the use of force incident will notify the ________________ The watch commander will delegate the next level of supervision responsible for the use of force investigative duties.
on-duty watch commander.
Investigative Responsibilities – Use of Non-Deadly Force
Who completes a Use of Force Administrative Review
Bureau/ Area Commander
How long does the Bureau/Area Commander have to approve the Blue team?
30 days
First arriving Supervisor to a deadly use of force will:
Act as incident commander.
The subject officer’s chain of command will complete the Administrative Leave Notice (LVMPD 117) for any incident involving the use of deadly force or where substantial bodily injury or death results. Supervisors will place other officers in relief of duty status at the direction of __________.
PEAP
