Firearms and Use of Force Flashcards

Which of the following best describes 'de-escalation' in the context of DPSST use of force training?

Answer: Using tactics and communication to reduce the intensity of a situation before force becomes necessary

De-escalation involves using communication, time, and tactical positioning to reduce the likelihood that force will be needed, consistent with DPSST training priorities.

Under DPSST standards, an officer's use of force must be proportional to what?

Answer: The level of resistance or threat presented by the subject at the time of the encounter

Proportionality requires that the level of force an officer uses corresponds directly to the threat or resistance present at that moment in time.

Which part of the body should a firearm's trigger finger rest when not actively shooting, per DPSST firearms safety training?

Answer: Along the frame outside the trigger guard

Safe firearms handling requires keeping the trigger finger straight along the frame, outside the trigger guard, until the officer has made the decision to fire.

DPSST-certified officers who fail to report a use of force incident as required by their agency policy may face which consequence?

Answer: Disciplinary action up to and including decertification

Failure to report use of force as required violates DPSST standards and agency policy, and can result in disciplinary action up to decertification.

What does 'totality of the circumstances' mean when evaluating an officer's use of force?

Answer: All facts and information reasonably known to the officer at the moment force was used are considered

Courts and DPSST apply the totality of the circumstances standard, meaning every fact the officer knew at the time must be considered as a whole when evaluating use of force.

A DPSST-certified officer draws their firearm during a vehicle stop where the driver is reaching under the seat. The driver then shows empty hands and complies. The officer should:

Answer: Assess the situation continuously and holster when it is safe and appropriate to do so

Officers must continuously reassess threat levels; once compliance is achieved and the scene is safe, the appropriate response is to lower the force level, which may include re-holstering.

Oregon's 'Measure 11' mandatory minimum sentencing law is relevant to DPSST training because it:

Answer: Provides officers understanding of the serious consequences suspects face for violent crimes, informing proportional force decisions

Understanding Measure 11 helps DPSST-certified officers recognize the serious nature of certain violent offenses and informs their threat assessment and proportional use of force decisions.