Policing.uk
Use of force
- Use of force
The application of physical force, including restraint, the use of equipment such as handcuffs, Taser, or batons, and the use of irritant sprays. Section 3 of the Criminal Law Act 1967 permits the use of such force as is reasonable in the circumstances in the prevention of crime or the arrest of offenders. Section 117 of PACE also authorises the use of reasonable force in the exercise of PACE powers.
In practice
Every use of force must be recorded. The test is whether the force used was reasonable, necessary, and proportionate in the circumstances as the officer believed them to be. Officers are judged on their honest belief at the time, not with hindsight. All use of force incidents must be reported and may be subject to review or investigation.
Related terms
Last updated 12 October 2026