What is defined as 'controlled force' in defensive tactics?

'Controlled force' in defensive tactics refers to the practice of applying only the level of physical force necessary to gain compliance from a subject. This principle emphasizes the importance of measured and appropriate responses in confrontational situations. The idea is to use just enough force to ensure safety and compliance, while avoiding excessive or unnecessary aggression. This approach not only aligns with ethical standards and legal guidelines but also helps in reducing the risk of injury to both the officer and the individual involved.

The concept of controlled force is grounded in the use of the minimum necessary force, which is critical in trained scenarios where de-escalation and proportional response are paramount. This means that officers are trained to assess the situation quickly and respond accordingly, without resorting to overwhelming force unless absolutely necessary. It creates a framework for officers to act judiciously and maintain control during potentially volatile encounters.

This principle is essential in law enforcement and defensive tactics training, reinforcing the standard that officers should only escalate their level of force in conjunction with the behavior of the subject they are dealing with.