When should an officer avoid using knife hand, hammer fist, or ridge hand Brachial Stuns?

The correct choice reflects an important principle in the use of force continuum. Officers are trained to apply appropriate levels of force, which include techniques like knife hand, hammer fist, or ridge hand Brachial Stuns, based on the threat level they are faced with. When an officer is not justified in using deadly force, they should also refrain from using these specific stuns, as they can escalate a situation unnecessarily.

These techniques can potentially cause significant pain or injury and might be considered excessive force if the circumstances do not warrant it. Instead, officers should rely on lower-level control measures, especially when a suspect is not posing an immediate threat to the officer or others.

The other options also present scenarios where these techniques might be reconsidered, such as when the suspect is cooperating or unarmed, but the pivotal moment comes down to the justification for force, underscoring the need for officers to continuously assess the situation they are facing.