Under what condition may a peace officer intentionally use a choke hold or similar neck restraint?

A peace officer may intentionally use a choke hold or similar neck restraint primarily when it serves to prevent serious bodily injury to another person. This condition reflects the critical nature of a situation where the officer needs to intervene to protect someone from harm. The use of such force is typically justified in scenarios where an immediate threat exists, and other means of de-escalation or restraint may not suffice.

The justification hinges on the necessity to safeguard lives, where inaction could lead to grave consequences. This principle aligns with broader concepts of using reasonable force in law enforcement, emphasizing the duty of officers to protect the public. By focusing on the context of serious bodily harm, the framework recognizes the serious implications of using potentially lethal restraint techniques and emphasizes their use only in the most urgent and severe contexts.

The emphasis on preventing serious bodily injury reflects a balance between the use of force and the protection of human life, ensuring that such methods are reserved for situations where they are clearly warranted.