What percentage of contacts require physical force from an officer?

The percentage of contacts that require physical force from an officer is generally recognized to be around 3%. This statistic reflects the understanding that the vast majority of police interactions do not escalate to the point where physical force is necessary. In fact, most engagements can be resolved through communication, de-escalation tactics, or other means of conflict resolution. The low percentage underscores the importance of training in alternative strategies and emphasizes the priority given to less confrontational approaches in law enforcement. This data helps to reinforce the professional standards aimed at minimizing the use of force and highlights the effectiveness of verbal commands and negotiation in policing.