When is mere presence by MA officers appropriate as force?

• A. To deter, establish authority, and reduce risk without contact or escalation
• B. Only when weapon drawn
• C. Only during emergencies
• D. Never

Answer: (D)

The situation hinges on the difference between deterrence and force. Merely having MA officers present can deter a threat and establish authority, potentially reducing risk without any physical contact. But that presence itself does not constitute a use of force or a controlled action to compel behavior. In the force continuum, presence is considered a non-physical posture used to deter, not a force option that achieves control. Because you’re asking about it “as force,” the appropriate stance is that it is never considered force in itself. If escalation is needed, you move through the actual force options (verbal commands, empty-hand control, equipment, etc.), but mere presence alone does not count as force.