What is a "compliance hold" and when is it appropriate to use?

A compliance hold refers to a technique used in defensive tactics aimed at gaining control over a subject while encouraging them to cooperate. It is designed to apply pressure in a manner that is firm yet minimizes the risk of injury to both the officer and the subject, promoting compliance without resorting to unnecessary force.

Using a compliance hold is appropriate when a subject's cooperation is uncertain. This technique helps establish control when an individual may be non-compliant or resistant, allowing law enforcement personnel to manage the situation effectively while still adhering to principles of de-escalation and safety.

The focus on cooperation distinguishes compliance holds from other techniques that may involve more forceful actions or maneuvers, underscoring the officer's intent to achieve compliance through control rather than aggression. Thus, it plays a vital role in the spectrum of force options available to law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of technique in the context of arrest and detention scenarios.