What level of control should be applied when verbal directions fail and the subject shows passive or defensive resistance?

The appropriate level of control in this scenario is Soft-Empty Hand Control. This method is designed for situations where verbal commands have not been successful, and the subject is exhibiting passive or defensive resistance. Soft-Empty Hand Control techniques utilize the minimum amount of force necessary to gain compliance without causing injury, making it suitable for circumstances where the subject is not actively fighting but may be resisting your directions.

Employing Soft-Empty Hand Control allows officers to maintain their authority while also de-escalating the situation. This approach is essential for ensuring safety for both the officer and the subject, as it mitigates the risk of unnecessary harm while still allowing for effective handling of the resistance.

While options like Hard-Empty Hand Control or the use of intermediate weapons may be appropriate in more aggressive encounters, they are not necessary in cases of passive or defensive resistance, where a gentler approach can achieve the desired outcome.