Which type of force is a guard justified in using if an arrested person attempts to flee from a correctional facility?

A guard is justified in using any force they believe is necessary when an arrested person attempts to flee from a correctional facility because the primary duty of security personnel is to ensure the safety and security of the facility, its staff, and other inmates. If an individual poses an immediate threat by attempting to escape, the guard must act decisively to prevent that escape in order to maintain order and safety.

This justification aligns with the larger context of use-of-force policies, which allow for a reasonable response to threats against institutional security. The use of force must be proportional to the situation, but in the context of preventing escape, guards have a wider latitude to act in order to safeguard the facility and its inhabitants.

In contrast, options discussing minimal force, non-lethal force, or requiring permission from a superior may not provide the guard with the necessary flexibility to address the immediate threat posed by a fleeing inmate. These constraints could hinder the guard’s effectiveness in a critical moment where rapid decision-making is essential to prevent escape and maintain security.