Use of Force and Defensive Tactics Flashcards
7 cards from real DCJS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Use of Force and Defensive Tactics flashcards as text
What is the primary purpose of de-escalation techniques in law enforcement encounters?
Answer: To reduce the need for force by calming situations through communication and tactical positioning
De-escalation uses communication, time, and tactical positioning to reduce tension and minimize the need for physical force.
An officer is being choked by a subject and cannot reach their firearm. Which defensive tactic is MOST appropriate as an immediate response?
Answer: Apply a defensive counter-technique to break the choke and create distance
When an officer faces an imminent threat such as being choked, immediate physical counter-techniques to break the hold and create distance are appropriate.
Under Virginia DCJS standards, officers must report use of force incidents primarily to:
Answer: The officer's chain of command and in the department's use of force reporting system
Virginia officers are required to report use of force incidents through their agency's chain of command and documentation systems.
A positional asphyxia risk is MOST associated with which restraint situation?
Answer: Placing a restrained subject face-down with weight applied to the back
Positional asphyxia is a risk when a restrained subject is left face-down (prone) with pressure on the back, restricting the ability to breathe.
Which of the following BEST describes 'less-lethal' force options?
Answer: Force options designed to achieve compliance with reduced likelihood of death or serious injury compared to firearms
Less-lethal options are designed to achieve compliance with a reduced — but not eliminated — risk of death or serious injury compared to conventional firearms.
When an officer draws their firearm but does not fire, this action is classified as:
Answer: Display of force or show of force, below the deadly force threshold
Drawing and displaying a firearm without firing is classified as a show or display of force and is below the deadly force threshold, though it must still be justified.
After using force, what is an officer's FIRST priority once the scene is safe?
Answer: Provide or summon emergency medical attention for any injured person
Once the scene is safe, the officer's first priority is to provide or summon emergency medical care for anyone injured, including the subject.