What does Penal Law 35.25 allow individuals to do?

Penal Law 35.25 provides individuals with the authority to use physical force in specific situations where they are acting to prevent or terminate a crime, specifically larceny or criminal mischief. This law recognizes the rights of citizens to intervene in these situations to protect property and prevent further criminal activity. The application of this statute underlines the concept of defense of property, allowing individuals to take reasonable measures to stop a crime when they witness it happening.

In this context, it is crucial to understand that the use of physical force must be proportional and necessary to the situation at hand. This means individuals cannot escalate a situation beyond what is needed to prevent the criminal act.

The other options do not align with the specific provisions of Penal Law 35.25. Engaging in peaceful protests relates more to First Amendment rights rather than penal law concerning physical force against crimes. Retaliation for slander and defamation is a legal issue addressed through civil law rather than criminal law, and apprehending suspects until police arrive involves different legal considerations related to citizen's arrest laws, which are not covered under this specific penal law.