What is the main factor an officer should consider when selecting an appropriate force option?

The main factor an officer should consider when selecting an appropriate force option is the subject's resistance. This is essential because the nature and intensity of the resistance displayed by the subject directly influence the level of force that may be justified and necessary to control the situation safely and effectively.

Understanding the subject's behavior—whether they are compliant, passive resistant, or actively aggressive—helps the officer assess the situation accurately and choose an appropriate response that balances the need for safety with the application of force. This approach aligns with the principles of proportionality and necessity in the use of force, ensuring that the response is tailored to the specific dynamics of the encounter.

In contrast, while factors such as the subject's ethnicity, location of the encounter, and officer's training level may provide context, they do not directly dictate the appropriateness of the force used in reaction to the subject's actions. The focus should remain on the immediate behavior and resistance of the subject to make informed and justifiable decisions regarding force.