8.3.6 Use of Force in Support of Law Enforcement
This section outlines the procedures and considerations for the use of force when the organization is authorized to support law enforcement operations. Here are the key points:
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Authorization for Law Enforcement Support:
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When authorized by a state to support law enforcement operations, the organization must seek Rules for the Use of Force (RUF) from the relevant law enforcement authority or controlling military authority of the state.
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Unavailability of RUF:
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In cases where RUF is unavailable, the organization's use of force procedures should address specific elements based on the United Nations Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials.
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Restrictions on Lethal Use of Firearms:
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The intentional lethal use of firearms should only occur when strictly unavoidable to protect life. This emphasizes the importance of using lethal force as a last resort and only when there is no other reasonable option to protect life.
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Note that this restriction does not change the inherent right to use reasonable and necessary force in self-defense.
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Use of Force Continuum and Identification:
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The organization's use of force continuum should include visual or aural identification of its personnel as law enforcement, with a clear warning of the intent to use firearms.
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Training Aids:
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The organization should develop training aids to assist its personnel in understanding, remembering, and applying specific use of force procedures or applicable RUF.
Compliance with these procedures ensures that the organization's personnel are aware of the specific rules and limitations when supporting law enforcement operations and that the use of force is carried out in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. The emphasis on using lethal force as a last resort aligns with principles of proportionality and necessity.