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Balancing Act: Basic Principles in the Use of Force for LE and Close Protection

by Jan Tevini

Self-defense, especially when firearms are involved, is a subject that demands strict adherence to principles to ensure the safety of individuals and the preservation of civil order. These principles, often encapsulated in the acronym “PLAN” (Proportionality, Legality, Accountability, Necessity), serve as a moral compass for professionals in the fields of Law Enforcement, the Military, and Close Protection. In this blog, we will delve into each of these principles and see how they align with KMG Krav Maga, that equips officers with techniques, tactics, and skills when the use of a firearm is not legal or possible and beyond.

Proportionality: Balancing the Scales of Force

Proportionality is the keystone of responsible force usage, and it resonates strongly with KMG Krav Maga, which emphasizes using the right amount of force at the right time. KMG teaches officers to employ force only when absolutely necessary, and that it should be proportional to the lawful objectives at hand.

KMG’s specialized courses such as the Law Enforcement Course (LEIC), the Close Protection Course (CPIC), and the Military Course (MIC) equip officers with the ability to de-escalate situations effectively and choose from a range of means for differentiated use of force, aligning perfectly with the concept of proportionality.

Legality: The Anchor of Authority

Legality, which underlines that force should only be used for lawful enforcement purposes, is at the core of KMG Krav Maga training. Officers are taught to operate within the bounds of the law, ensuring that they adhere to the rule of law when using force. This is paramount in KMG, not only when training with professionals, as everyone in a self-defense situation needs to make split-second decisions while remaining within the boundaries of the law.

Accountability: A Pillar of Trust

Accountability is deeply ingrained in KMG. KMG’s professional training principles emphasize that incidents involving force should be immediately reported and reviewed by superiors. Those in command are held responsible for the actions of their subordinates, echoing the principle of accountability. Emphasis on transparency and ethical conduct is invaluable for officers in Law Enforcement, Close Protection, and the Military, as it fosters trust and responsibility.

Necessity: A Precise Application of Force

Necessity mandates that force is used only when strictly required and non-violent means should be the first recourse. KMG’s specialized courses emphasize that restraint should be exercised, utilizing the minimum level of force for the least amount of time. KMG techniques prioritize the safety of all parties involved, which is in line with the concept of necessity.

KMG Krav Maga’s incorporation of techniques designed for non-lethal self-defense is particularly valuable for officers. It provides them with effective means to subdue threats without resorting to firearms, in scenarios where the use of a firearm is not legal or possible. This is a cornerstone of KMG Krav Maga’s specialized courses.

KMG Krav Maga and the Scale of Force

KMG offers a comprehensive set of techniques and tactics, which are instrumental when the use of a firearm is not a viable option. Its specialized courses, such as LEIC, CPIC, and MIC, train officers to employ a spectrum of force, allowing them to respond appropriately to escalating situations.

Different Means of Force

In KMG Krav Maga, officers are trained in various means of force:

Non-violent means:

1. Presence of Authority: A commanding presence that dissuades potential threats.
2. Verbal: Effective communication and negotiation skills.
3. “Show of Force”: A display of self-defense techniques to deter aggression.

Violent means:

1. Physical Human Force: Krav Maga techniques for self-defense without weapons.
2. Handcuffs: Restraint techniques for controlling suspects.
3. Less Than Lethal Firearms: Techniques and tactics designed to incapacitate without causing fatal injuries.

Our emphasis on non-lethal means aligns with the PLAN principles, ensuring that officers have a comprehensive toolkit for a proportionate and lawful response to threats.

Incorporating KMG Krav Maga into Permissible Circumstances for the Use of Firearms

KMG Krav Maga shines when it comes to the permissible circumstances for the use of firearms. By teaching officers to effectively subdue threats without lethal force, KMG provides a critical bridge between non-violent means and firearm use. When lethal force is strictly unavoidable, KMG training supports officers in making more informed decisions about when and how to use firearms.

Procedures for the Use of Firearms

We emphasize the importance of procedural rigor, even when using firearms. Officers are taught to:

1. Identify: The importance of proper identification, especially when the situation escalates.
2. Warning: How to issue clear and effective warnings.
3. Adequate Time: Allowing time for a warning to be obeyed before resorting to firearms.

Procedures After the Use of Firearms

KMG also emphasizes the importance of maintaining control after a use of force:

1. Medical Aid: Providing immediate medical aid to injured parties.
2. Notification: Notifying relevant parties and ensuring that due process is followed.
3. Investigation: Cooperating fully with investigations.
4. Full Report: Providing comprehensive and detailed reports of the incident.

In conclusion, KMG Krav Maga is a highly effective system that equips Law Enforcement Officers, Close Protection Officers, and Military Personnel with the skills and knowledge to apply force judiciously and lawfully. By training in KMG Krav Maga, officers gain a crucial edge in scenarios where the use of firearms is not legal or possible. This integrated approach, where principles and techniques are harmonized, provides a well-rounded strategy for professionals operating in high-stress environments. It ensures the preservation of life, the protection of human rights, and the maintenance of civil order.