How is “reasonable force” defined in Utah law enforcement?

In Utah law enforcement, "reasonable force" is defined as the minimal level of force necessary to make an arrest or protect oneself. This definition emphasizes that law enforcement officers must use only the amount of force that is essential to safely carry out their duties, such as apprehending a suspect or defending against an immediate threat.

The concept of minimal force aligns with the principles of de-escalation and the use of proportional response in law enforcement practices, ensuring that officers do not escalate a situation unnecessarily. This standard protects the rights of individuals while also allowing officers to perform their responsibilities effectively and safely. By adhering to this standard, officers aim to minimize the risk of injury to themselves and to the people they are interacting with, reinforcing the importance of restraint in the use of force.