DCJS Use of Force and Defensive Tactics 2

Question 1

Under Virginia law, which standard is used to evaluate whether an officer's use of force was reasonable?

Accepted Answer

Objective reasonableness from the perspective of a reasonable officer on the scene

Answer

The Fourth Amendment objective reasonableness standard, established in Graham v. Connor, evaluates force from the perspective of a reasonable officer on the scene.

Question 2

When is a law enforcement officer permitted to use deadly force against a fleeing suspect in Virginia?

Accepted Answer

Only when the suspect poses an imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury to officers or the public

Answer

Under Tennessee v. Garner, deadly force against a fleeing suspect is only justified when the suspect poses an imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury.

Question 3

Which factor is NOT one of the Graham v. Connor factors used to assess use of force reasonableness?

Accepted Answer

The race or ethnicity of the suspect

Answer

Graham v. Connor established three factors: crime severity, immediate threat to safety, and active resistance or evasion — race is never a legitimate factor.

Question 4

A subject is handcuffed and compliant. An officer strikes the subject twice. This action is BEST described as:

Accepted Answer

Excessive force because the threat has been neutralized

Answer

Striking a handcuffed, compliant subject constitutes excessive force because the threat has been neutralized and force is no longer necessary.

Question 5

Which type of force involves using the officer's body — hands, feet, or knees — to control a subject?

Accepted Answer

Empty-hand control techniques

Answer

Empty-hand control techniques use the officer's own body (hands, feet, knees) to restrain or control a subject without weapons.

(DCJS) VA DCJS Law Enforcement Certification Practice Test

(DCJS) VA DCJS Law Enforcement Certification Practice Test

DCJS Use of Force and Defensive Tactics 2