What is the primary goal for an officer during a confrontation?

In a confrontation, the primary goal for an officer is to maintain control of the subject. This is crucial for ensuring safety for both the officer and any individuals involved in the situation. Control allows officers to manage potentially volatile situations and prevents escalation to physical force, which can lead to injury or further complications. By maintaining control, officers can assess the situation, provide direction, and make decisions regarding the next steps, whether that includes apprehending the subject or facilitating communication.

While apprehending the subject can be a component of this process, the overarching objective is not merely to apprehend but to ensure the safety and order of the scene. The use of force is a last resort and should only be employed when necessary to protect life or prevent serious injury, following the principle of proportionality in law enforcement actions. De-escalation is a valuable tactic, but it is not always attainable in every confrontation. Thus, controlling the subject encompasses these strategies and is a foundational goal for law enforcement during confrontations.