Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA) BA State Certification Practice Exam

What is considered the level of force during an investigative stop?

1. Excessive force

2. Reasonable, objective officer

3. Minimum physical force

4. Subjective officer discretion

The correct answer is: Reasonable, objective officer

The level of force during an investigative stop is considered to be based on a reasonable, objective officer standard. This means that the force used must be justified under the circumstances based on what a reasonable officer would deem appropriate in that specific situation. During such stops, the force should align with the necessity of ensuring safety and the effective handling of the investigation. Reasonable, objective standards require officers to assess the situation contextually, balancing the need to maintain order and officer safety with the rights of the individual being stopped. The concept revolves around how an officer's actions are perceived through the lens of reasonableness at the moment of the stop, taking into account the totality of circumstances such as the behavior of the individuals involved and the surrounding environment. In contrast, excessive force indicates a level of force that is unjustified or disproportionate to the threat being posed, which does not apply here. Minimum physical force might suggest an overly cautious or weak response that may not allow officers to effectively perform their duties. Subjective officer discretion focuses on the individual officer's personal judgments, which can vary widely and may not adhere to an objective standard that helps ensure accountability and consistency in law enforcement practices.