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These facts and circumstances include whether the suspect poses an immediate threat to us or others, the severity of the crime at hand, whether the suspect is actively resisting arrest or attempting to evade arrest by flight, and whether the circumstances are tense and rapidly evolving. The size, height, and weight of the suspect in relation to us can also determine the amount of force that can be “reasonably” used.

In the past, many law enforcement agencies used a “Force Continuum,” or “Use of Force Barometer,” which required an officer to carry out a series of gradual steps before he or she could advance to different levels of force.

In the unpredictable world faced by law enforcement, however, a calm and passive situation can change into a life-threatening one in an instant. We need a guide that enables us to move from one force option to another immediately—without following a slow progression of procedures.

Today, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department uses a “Situational Use of Force Options Chart” as a guide to help its deputies make the right decisions when utilizing force on duty. Many other police agencies use a similar “Use of Force Barometer” or “Use of Force Options Chart.”