What type of force lies between mechanical force and deadly force, requiring more justification than mechanical force?

The type of force that lies between mechanical force and deadly force, requiring more justification than mechanical force, is enhanced mechanical force. This concept refers to a level of physical intervention that is more intense than standard mechanical force but does not reach the threshold of deadly force. Enhanced mechanical force may involve techniques that are designed to gain compliance or control over an individual without the intention to cause serious injury or death, making it a necessary level of response in certain situations. Officers are trained to apply enhanced mechanical force in scenarios where a higher level of resistance is encountered, yet do not find it necessary to escalate to the use of deadly force, which would need to be justified by an imminent threat to life.

It's important to distinguish enhanced mechanical force from the other options. Deadly force refers specifically to actions that can lead to serious injury or death, necessitating a high justification standard due to the potential outcomes. Physical contact can encompass a wide range of interactions and does not specifically address the need for justification beyond mechanical force. Imminent danger is a context for assessing the overall situation but does not directly define a specific type of force. Thus, enhanced mechanical force serves as the important middle ground in law enforcement use of force paradigms.