What is the principle regarding the use of force during an arrest?

The principle that guides the use of force during an arrest is that no greater force than necessary should be applied. This means that law enforcement officers are instructed to use only the amount of force that is reasonable and proportionate to the situation they encounter. The goal is to safely apprehend a suspect while minimizing the risk of injury to both the officer and the suspect, as well as to bystanders.

Determining what constitutes "necessary" force depends on several factors, including the level of resistance from the individual being arrested, the nature of the crime, the presence of weapons, and the potential threat to the officer and public safety. The emphasis on proportionality reflects a commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of individuals, reinforcing a standard that excessive force is to be avoided. This principle is fundamental to policing ethics and legal frameworks surrounding law enforcement conduct.