Use of Force Policies Flashcards

Under the Graham v. Connor standard, which factor is NOT considered when evaluating whether force was objectively reasonable?

Answer: Officer's subjective fear

Graham v. Connor uses an objective reasonableness test based on facts known at the time, not the officer's subjective state of mind.

In Oregon, which agency is responsible for certifying correctional and law enforcement officers and setting minimum use-of-force training standards?

Answer: Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST)

DPSST establishes minimum training standards, including use-of-force training, for certified public safety officers in Oregon.

When must an officer provide or summon medical attention after using force on a subject?

Answer: As soon as it is safe to do so after force is used

Best practice and most agency policies require that medical attention be provided or summoned as soon as it is safe to do so following any use of force.

Which legal case established that deadly force may only be used against a fleeing felon when the suspect poses a significant threat of death or serious bodily harm?

Answer: Tennessee v. Garner

Tennessee v. Garner (1985) held that using deadly force to stop a fleeing felon is unconstitutional unless the suspect poses a significant threat of death or serious physical harm.

A use-of-force report must be submitted:

Answer: Any time force beyond verbal commands is used, per policy timelines

Most agency policies require a use-of-force report whenever force beyond verbal commands is applied, submitted within a specified timeframe (often the same shift or within 24 hours).

Which of the following best describes the principle of 'proportionality' in use of force?

Answer: The level of force must be appropriate and not excessive relative to the threat posed

Proportionality means the force used must be reasonably related to the level of threat — not necessarily identical to it, but not excessive.

When a supervisor is notified of a use-of-force incident, what is their primary responsibility?

Answer: Respond to the scene, assess the situation, and ensure proper documentation

Supervisors must respond to use-of-force scenes to assess the situation, ensure medical attention if needed, and verify proper documentation is completed.