When can a person justify the use of force while making an arrest?

A person can justify the use of force while making an arrest primarily when recognized as a peace officer. This recognition usually comes with specific legal authority granted to law enforcement personnel, enabling them to use reasonable force if necessary to ensure compliance during an arrest. Peace officers are trained to follow established protocols and legal standards regarding the application of force, ensuring that their actions are aligned with law enforcement responsibilities.

In contrast, the other options present scenarios where the justification for using force may not be valid or legally supported. Attempting to initiate an illegal search would not provide a legitimate basis for the use of force, as it goes against legal standards. Believing a suspect might flee, while a consideration in some contexts, doesn’t automatically validate the need for force without clear, immediate threat or action. Lastly, being aware of the suspect's history may inform the officer's approach but does not inherently justify the use of force in and of itself. Therefore, the recognized authority as a peace officer is the cornerstone for justifying force during an arrest within the law.