What should an officer do if they cannot establish a tactical advantage when making an arrest?

When an officer cannot establish a tactical advantage during an arrest, disengaging or escaping the threat is the most prudent response. This approach prioritizes the officer's safety and allows them to reassess the situation. Engaging without a tactical advantage can lead to increased risks, including potential harm to the officer or others involved.

By choosing to disengage, the officer can create distance, allow for the situation to de-escalate, and potentially regroup to create a more favorable tactical position. This strategy recognizes that not every situation can or should be confronted head-on, especially if the immediate environment is unsafe or the officer is outnumbered or outgunned.

In situations where an officer may feel overwhelmed, calling for backup is a standard practice, but it is most effective after ensuring personal safety. Confronting the subject directly without a tactical advantage could lead to unnecessary conflict. Similarly, attempting to negotiate can be valuable in some circumstances but may not be appropriate when the risks are too high. Therefore, disengagement is the most sensible choice when a clear tactical advantage cannot be established.