What type of force is authorized for peace officers to use during an arrest according to Penal Law 35.30?

Peace officers are authorized to use physical force during an arrest according to Penal Law 35.30. This statute allows for the application of reasonable physical force when necessary to apprehend an individual who is resisting arrest or attempting to evade lawful arrest. The emphasis is on the use of force that is necessary and proportionate to the situation at hand.

Physical force is defined as any amount of strength used to gain control or compliance from a subject. It is crucial for peace officers to exercise this authority responsibly, ensuring that the force does not escalate to excessive or unnecessary levels. The law recognizes that officers may need to employ physical force to overcome resistance to ensure public safety and uphold the law.

In contrast to excessive force, which is unlawful and may lead to serious repercussions for the officer involved, the authorized use of physical force is clearly delineated within the legal framework to maintain order and authority in the performance of their duties. Verbal force, while it might refer to commands or instructions, does not constitute the physical means required for an arrest; hence, only physical force is applicable in this context.