Flashcards
What is the core principle guiding LVMPD’s use of force policy?
To hold the highest regard for the dignity and liberty of all persons and place minimal reliance on force.
What legal standard governs use of force under the Fourth Amendment?
Objectively reasonable force, as established by Graham v. Connor.
What must an officer do before using deadly force, if feasible?
Give a verbal warning.
What are the elements of deadly force an officer must articulate?
Ability, Opportunity, Imminent Jeopardy, and Preclusion.
What does “objectively reasonable” mean in use of force decisions?
Judged from the perspective of a reasonable officer at the scene, based on the totality of circumstances.
When is deadly force authorized?
When protecting oneself or others from an imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm.
What must officers continuously do during a use of force incident?
Reassess their response and adjust force based on evolving circumstances.
What is considered life-threatening resistance?
The imminent use of a firearm or other force likely to cause death or serious injury.
Is the use of force allowed to prevent escape?
Only if the fleeing subject poses a significant threat of death or serious harm to others.
What is de-escalation?
The use of time, distance, communication, and tactics to reduce the need for force.
When must officers summon medical attention after force is used?
When there is visible injury, complaint of injury, or after specific force applications like ECDs or OC spray to the face.
What is the definition of intermediate force?
Force that has a reasonable likelihood of causing injury or substantial pain.
When is a Use of Force Report required?
Any time force beyond low level is used, or if low level force results in injury or complaint of pain.
What court case defined objective reasonableness in use of force?
Graham v. Connor.
What does ‘preclusion’ mean in the context of deadly force?
All other alternatives or de-escalation options have been reasonably exhausted or are not feasible.
What type of resistance is demonstrated by a subject tensing or pulling away?
Obstructive resistance.
What type of force includes verbal commands and officer presence?
Low Level Force.
What type of resistance involves attempting to strike or attack an officer?
Assaultive resistance.
When should officers place a prone handcuffed subject into a recovery position?
As soon as it is safe to do so.
When is use of a chokehold permitted?
It is prohibited unless deadly force is authorized.
What must officers avoid doing to a prone subject?
Applying pressure to the back, neck, or head.
What does the PIT maneuver involve?
Intentional contact with a moving vehicle to stop it.
What type of force is the PIT maneuver considered when performed above 40 mph?
Deadly force.
What is required before performing a PIT maneuver, when feasible?
Notification to Dispatch of intent to PIT.
What is required when a patrol dog causes injury?
Medical aid must be rendered and a supervisor and Dispatch must be notified.
When must a supervisor respond to a use of force incident?
Immediately upon notification.
How many ECD five-second cycles can be used before the tactic is deemed ineffective?
Three, absent exigent circumstances.
What is the goal of de-escalation?
To stabilize the situation and reduce the need for force.
When is an officer required to intervene?
When observing another officer using unjustified or excessive force.
How should force be documented in LVMPD?
In a Use of Force Report and Blue Team, depending on the situation.
When is it inappropriate to use handcuffs during a Terry stop?
When the subject is cooperative, non-threatening, and not likely to flee.
Is a Use of Force Report required for blocking with no contact?
No, but the event may still be documented in a vehicle report.
Is pointing a firearm at a person considered a use of force?
No, but it must be documented as a reportable action.
What does ‘imminent threat’ mean in use of force context?
A threat that is about to occur and requires immediate response.
What is the maximum allowable use of force?
Only that which is objectively reasonable and necessary under the circumstances.
What must a supervisor do if they observe poor tactics?
Take prompt action to correct any deficiencies.
Can OC spray be used during a protest without authorization?
No, it requires incident commander approval.
What type of force is a baton strike to the head?
Deadly force.
What is a vehicle containment technique (VCT)?
A method of blocking a suspect vehicle to prevent escape.
Is a Use of Force Report required after a VCT?
Yes, even if there is no injury or complaint.
What should officers do if a subject is exposed to OC spray?
Decontaminate the subject and summon medical aid if needed.
Can a Taser (ECD) be used on a person who is handcuffed?
Only if they are actively assaultive or pose a threat of injury.
What is required when deploying an impact munition?
Clear intent, safe targeting, and notification to medical personnel.
When is ramming with a vehicle authorized?
Only when deadly force is justified.
What are considered target areas for impact weapons?
Large muscle groups like thighs or buttocks.
What must happen after any use of deadly force?
Supervisor response, scene containment, notifications, and investigation.
When must Blue Team be used?
For documenting use of force, vehicle tactics, or critical incidents.
What is required when a supervisor arrives at a use of force scene?
Scene assessment, witness identification, and initial review.
Is touch stun with a Taser encouraged?
No, it is discouraged unless completing a neuromuscular effect.
