What is the primary guideline for law enforcement officers concerning the use of force?

The primary guideline for law enforcement officers concerning the use of force is that it should be employed only when it is necessary. This principle is rooted in the concept of ensuring that officers act within the framework of the law and ethical standards. The use of force must be justified as a response to an immediate threat or to prevent harm to individuals, including officers themselves or the public.

The necessity of force also reflects the importance of proportionality; officers are trained to assess the situation and determine the least amount of force required to effectively address the circumstances at hand. This ensures that the rights and dignity of individuals are respected and that excessive or unjustified force is avoided. Overall, a necessary approach to force aims to maintain public trust and uphold the responsibility of law enforcement as protectors and service providers, rather than aggressors.