Use of Force Principles Flashcards

What does 'de-escalation' mean in the context of correctional use of force?

Answer: Using communication and tactics to reduce tension and avoid or minimize force

De-escalation involves active communication, patience, and tactical positioning to resolve conflicts without or with minimal force.

Under BSCC standards, supervisors who witness excessive force by a subordinate and fail to intervene may be found:

Answer: Liable for failure to intervene

Supervisors have a duty to intervene when they witness clearly excessive or unlawful force, and failure to do so can result in personal liability.

Which scenario would most clearly constitute 'malicious and sadistic' use of force under the Eighth Amendment?

Answer: Striking a handcuffed, compliant inmate while laughing

Striking a restrained, compliant inmate for no penological purpose exemplifies malicious and sadistic force prohibited by the Eighth Amendment.

In a cell extraction scenario, which step should generally occur FIRST?

Answer: Attempt verbal persuasion and de-escalation

Policy generally requires attempting verbal contact and de-escalation before escalating to physical extraction tactics.

Which of the following is a lawful use of force in a correctional facility?

Answer: Preventing an inmate from destroying facility property when no lesser means is available

Preventing property destruction when no lesser means is available is a recognized legitimate penological purpose for using force.

What is the purpose of a use-of-force review board or committee in a correctional agency?

Answer: To assess whether force used was justified and identify training needs

Use-of-force review boards evaluate incidents to ensure policy compliance, accountability, and improvement of training programs.

Which factor is most important in determining whether positional restraint (e.g., prone restraint) is safe to continue?

Answer: Continuous monitoring of the inmate's breathing and consciousness

Prone restraint can cause positional asphyxia, so constant monitoring of breathing and consciousness is essential to prevent death.