How is "resistance" defined in the context of police use of force?

In the context of police use of force, "resistance" is defined as any form of physical, verbal, or psychological opposition to commands issued by law enforcement. This encompasses a wide range of actions, from actively resisting arrest to refusing to comply with an officer's instructions, which can include argumentative or hostile verbal responses. Recognizing resistance in its various forms is critical for officers as it informs their response and use of force decisions based on the level and nature of the resistance encountered.

In contrast, complete compliance with law enforcement commands signifies cooperation rather than resistance, while an absolute refusal to interact with officers may not provide a clear means of assessing resistance in a practical scenario. Lastly, defining resistance as a method of negotiation misrepresents the dynamic, as negotiation generally implies a willingness to engage cooperatively, which is not aligned with the concept of resistance. Thus, understanding resistance as an opposition in various forms is essential for policing practices and decision-making in the field.