CBP Officer Firearms & Use of Force Flashcards

Which federal statute primarily governs when federal officers, including CBP officers, may use deadly force?

Answer: The Fourth Amendment reasonableness standard as interpreted by Graham v. Connor

Graham v. Connor established the Fourth Amendment 'objectively reasonable' standard that governs all use-of-force decisions by law enforcement officers.

A subject is actively attacking a CBP officer with a knife at close range. Which force option is MOST appropriate?

Answer: Deadly force

An edged weapon attack at close range presents an imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury, justifying deadly force.

What does the CBP term 'de-escalation' require an officer to attempt before using force when feasible?

Answer: Using verbal communication and tactical repositioning to reduce the need for force

De-escalation requires officers to use verbal skills, distance, and positioning to reduce tension and avoid or minimize the use of force when time and safety permit.

After a use-of-force incident, when must a CBP officer notify a supervisor?

Answer: As soon as practicable

CBP policy requires officers to notify a supervisor as soon as practicable following any use-of-force incident.

Which CBP document provides the governing rules for officer conduct regarding firearms, less-lethal weapons, and force levels?

Answer: CBP Use of Force Policy, Procedures, and Guidelines

The CBP Use of Force Policy, Procedures, and Guidelines document is the primary directive governing all force-related decisions by CBP officers.

A CBP officer unintentionally discharges a firearm without injury. Is this a reportable incident?

Answer: Yes, all discharges including accidental must be reported

All firearms discharges, whether intentional or accidental, must be reported under CBP policy regardless of whether injury occurs.