In the context of PC-832, what does "use of force" refer to?

The term "use of force" in the context of PC-832 specifically pertains to the level of physical coercion that law enforcement officers may employ when confronted by subjects. This concept is paramount in understanding the appropriate circumstances under which officers can apply force, and the various levels of force that may be deemed necessary depending on the situation.

The use of force must be reasonable and necessary to accomplish a lawful objective, such as apprehending a suspect or ensuring officer safety. Training under PC-832 covers how to assess situations and determine the appropriate level of force based on factors like the behavior of the person involved, the context of the confrontation, and adherence to department policies and legal guidelines.

The other choices do not capture the complete essence of "use of force." While handcuffing (as suggested in the first option) is a specific action that can fall under the broader concept of force, it does not encompass the wider legal and situational aspects of force application. The third option, focusing on actions taken to ensure public safety, presents a more general notion but does not specifically define how force is categorized or applied. Lastly, the fourth choice regarding non-lethal weapons pertains more to tools and their justification rather than directly addressing the concept of "force" itself