When is it appropriate to use joint locks or holds?

The use of joint locks or holds is primarily intended for situations where law enforcement or security personnel need to gain control over a subject who is resisting without resorting to lethal or excessive force. This technique allows officers to manage and restrain individuals in a way that minimizes potential injury to both the officer and the subject.

In situations where a subject is actively resisting arrest or posing a threat to themselves or others, joint locks can effectively incapacitate without causing lasting harm. This method aligns with the use of force continuum, where officers are trained to employ the least amount of force necessary to achieve compliance and ensure safety.

The other scenarios outlined do not align with the appropriate context for using joint locks. For example, using lethal force is never justifiable in situations where a joint lock could suffice. Similarly, if de-escalation techniques were to fail completely, officers should still evaluate their options carefully before escalating to physical holds, ensuring that they consider the situation’s dynamics. Lastly, limiting the application of joint locks solely to training exercises disregards their practical application in real-world encounters where restraint is required.