Reasonability-of-force assessments mediate the link between police experience and use-of-force decision making

We examined if experienced officers use less and lower levels of force than less-experienced officers due to differences in reasonability-of-force assessments. Officers observed body-camera videos involving use-of-force, indicated their course of action, and the extent to which several factors were relevant in determining appropriate use-of-force. Experienced officers were more likely to use verbal commands and less-experienced officers were more likely to use less-lethal and lethal force. This was mediated by available force mitigation opportunities, nearby weapons, and the subject’s likelihood of escape. Results inform the skills involved in and training that reinforces expert use-of-force decision making performance.