235 Defensive Tactics & Threat Assessment Flashcards
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Read the first 7 235 Defensive Tactics & Threat Assessment flashcards as text
Which principle guides the decision to use force under Pennsylvania's Act 235 framework?
Answer: Force must be objectively reasonable based on the totality of circumstances
Act 235 aligns with the Fourth Amendment standard established in Graham v. Connor, requiring that force be objectively reasonable given all circumstances known to the officer.
During a weapon retention struggle, an officer should AVOID:
Answer: Releasing the weapon to prevent injury to the subject
Surrendering a firearm during a retention struggle places the officer in extreme danger; weapon retention must be maintained regardless of pain or pressure.
A subject who appears mentally impaired or in crisis is BEST managed initially through:
Answer: Calm verbal communication with reduced stimuli and a slower approach
Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) principles recommend a calm, patient approach that reduces environmental stimulation to de-escalate individuals experiencing a mental health crisis.
Which of the following is an example of 'disparity of force' that may justify a higher use-of-force response?
Answer: Multiple subjects confronting a single officer
Multiple attackers represent a disparity of force because the officer cannot effectively control all subjects simultaneously, elevating the perceived threat level.
The 'interview stance' position in defensive tactics is designed to:
Answer: Allow natural conversation while keeping the officer in a ready defensive position
The interview stance blends a non-threatening appearance with a weight-balanced, feet-staggered position that allows rapid defensive movement if needed.
Under Act 235 training, which of the following subjects would most clearly represent an 'able' threat element?
Answer: A physically fit subject with a knife within striking distance
Ability requires that the subject has the physical capacity and means to cause harm; a fit subject with a knife within range clearly possesses that ability.
Post-incident, officers are required to document use-of-force events primarily to:
Answer: Provide an accurate factual record for legal, administrative, and training review
Accurate documentation creates an evidentiary record that supports legal defense, administrative review, and identification of training needs.