The highest level of force that is capable of killing a suspect.

• A. Verbal force
• B. Mere presence
• C. Pain compliance
• D. Deadly force

Answer: (D)

The key idea is understanding that deadly force is the level of force that can cause death or serious bodily harm, and it is only used as a last resort when there is an imminent threat to life or serious bodily harm. This makes it the highest level of force because its potential consequence is lethal. Verbal commands, mere presence, and pain compliance are designed to deter, gain compliance, or control without intending or achieving lethal outcomes, so they are considered non-lethal or less-lethal options. Deadly force is tightly limited by law and department policy to situations where there is an immediate and unavoidable threat, and there are no reasonable alternatives to prevent loss of life.