What should law enforcement personnel strive for when applying force?

When applying force, law enforcement personnel should ensure their actions are proportionate to the situation. This principle is essential for maintaining both the safety of officers and civilians, as well as upholding the rule of law and public trust in law enforcement. Proportionality means that the level of force used must correspond to the threat posed by a situation; for example, if an individual is unarmed and non-combative, using lethal force would be inappropriate and excessive.

Maintaining proportionality is key to de-escalating potentially volatile situations and preventing unnecessary harm. It allows officers to make decisions that reflect a balanced judgment, ensuring that actions taken align with the level of resistance or danger they encounter. By doing so, law enforcement can effectively protect themselves, others, and uphold their duty to serve the community responsibly.

This approach promotes accountability and can help mitigate the risk of public backlash, legal consequences, and diminished community relations, which are critical in modern policing.