In what scenario would strikes be most appropriately used by law enforcement?

Strikes should be most appropriately used by law enforcement as a last resort to stop violent behavior because they are considered a use of force and can result in serious injury or escalation of a situation. Law enforcement is trained to prioritize de-escalation techniques and to use the minimum amount of force necessary to gain control of a situation. By reserving strikes for situations where there is an imminent threat to officer safety or to protect others from harm, officers can align their actions with departmental policies and legal standards regarding use of force.

In scenarios where there is no immediate threat, such as during routine traffic stops or in a crowded area attempting to disperse a crowd, employing strikes could lead to unnecessary injury and exacerbate tensions. Demonstrating authority through physical force can undermine community trust and cooperation, which is why it is essential for strikes to be reserved for occasions where other options have been exhausted or are ineffective. This understanding reinforces the principles of proportionality and necessity in the use of force.