Name the four basic principles of the use of force.

The four basic principles of the use of force are necessity, proportionality, de-escalation, and accountability.

Necessity refers to the requirement that force should only be used when absolutely required to achieve a legitimate objective, typically to protect oneself or others from imminent harm. This emphasizes that any use of force should be justified and not arbitrary.

Proportionality states that the level of force used must correspond to the level of threat or resistance encountered. This principle ensures that an appropriate response is given and excessive force is avoided, maintaining a balance that reflects the context of the situation.

De-escalation is the principle that emphasizes the importance of reducing tensions and avoiding confrontations when possible. It encourages officers to utilize communication and negotiation tactics to resolve conflicts without the need to resort to physical force.

Accountability involves being responsible for the decisions made regarding the use of force. Law enforcement officers must be prepared to justify their actions and be held to standards that ensure their actions align with legal and ethical guidelines.

The combination of these principles provides a framework that guides law enforcement in making sound, ethical, and legal decisions when faced with situations that may require the use of force.