What should an officer do if an assailant grabs their drawn weapon?

When an assailant grabs an officer's drawn weapon, the recommended response is to twist the weapon 180 degrees into the assailant. This technique is rooted in self-defense principles aimed at regaining control over the weapon while minimizing the risk of it being used against the officer. By twisting the weapon towards the assailant, the officer can create leverage and potentially destabilize the assailant's grip, allowing for a more favorable position and the chance to disengage or regain control.

This approach emphasizes the importance of maintaining control and using the situation to the officer’s advantage while considering the overall safety of everyone involved. It is a tactical response that focuses on neutralizing the immediate threat, rather than escalating the situation unnecessarily.

The other options do not provide as effective a solution to the immediate threat posed by an assailant grabbing the weapon. Utilizing lethal force could lead to unnecessary escalation and potential harm to bystanders, while calling for backup could delay immediate response. Letting go of the weapon and stepping back might allow the assailant to take full control of the situation, which can be dangerous.