Canadian Use of Force Instructor©

Day 1: Canadian Use of Force Law

Upon completion of this module, the instructor candidate will understand what use-of-force is, and how it is a crucial theoretical underpinning, as well as an essential component to decision-making on a daily basis. This session is a combined lecture, discussion and group work. There is a written exam for this module. A score of 80% is required for successful completion.

Define
· What is legislation?
· What is force?
· Principles in use-of-force.

Legislation
· What Canadian legislation authorizes the use of force?
· What Criminal Code sections justify the use of force?
· What defenses can you rely on if you use force as a peace officer?
· What Criminal Code section holds an officer accountable for the amount of force used?
· What is burden of proof and reasonable doubt?

Tools
· How to use the objective reasonable test.
· How the Use-of-Force Training Aid is used in decision-making and actions.
· How to use tactical impact factors.
· Situations where resistance may occur.
· Respond to subject behavior using appropriate responses.

1. Define what legislation is.
2. Define what force is.
3. Identify and explain the Principles in Use-of-Force.
4. Clearly articulate what legislation authorizes the use of force.
5. Clearly articulate what Criminal Code sections an officer can rely on to justify the use of force.
6. Clearly describe what defenses an officer can rely on if they use force as a peace officer.
7. Clearly identify what section of the Criminal Code holds an officer accountable for the amount of force used.
8. Define and articulate an understanding of burden of proof is and how it applies to the use of force.
9. Define and articulate an understanding of reasonable doubt is and how it applies to the use of force.
10. Demonstrate an understanding of the objective reasonable test and how it is used.
11. Demonstrate and understanding of what a use of force training aid is and how it is used to guide an officer in his or her decision making and actions.
12. Identify and articulate tactical impact factors.
13. Identify and articulate situations where resistance may occur.
14. Articulate and recognize subject behavior categories and describe the correct response options.