The objective analysis of a use of force incident requires that attention be paid to the facts and circumstances confronting the officer at the moment of application. This is the essence of a reasonable and competent analysis of such an event. However, too often law enforcement officials, legal professionals, and civilians focus upon that which an officer could have or should have done to avoid the ultimate outcome. This type of hindsight driven critique represents a process that is contrary to the responsible evaluation of an officer’s response. This presentation will address the differences between a critique and the proper analysis of a use of force incident. A real-world case will be utilized to highlight these differences and illustrate factors that drove officer performance in the case at hand.
