In what circumstance is the use of force deemed permissible according to the policy?

The use of force is deemed permissible when compliance is not achieved through verbal commands alone because this indicates that less intrusive means of communication and de-escalation have been exhausted. In law enforcement and Coast Guard operations, the use of force should always be a measured response aimed at ensuring safety and compliance, and officers are trained to utilize verbal commands as the first step in managing a situation. If these commands are ignored and the individual does not comply with the officer’s lawful orders, it may create a scenario where escalating the situation is necessary to maintain control and protect all parties involved.

In contrast, authority being challenged is too subjective and could lead to unnecessary force being used without proper justification. An imminent threat to public safety could justify the use of force, but it specifically pertains to immediate dangers, rather than compliance issues. Operating in a public environment alone does not inherently justify the use of force, as the situation must be assessed on the behavior of individuals and the context in which the officer is operating. Thus, option C accurately reflects a clear guideline that aligns with the principles of use of force in service protocols.