What does visual control enable an officer to do?

Visual control is a critical aspect of an officer's ability to maintain safety and manage interactions with subjects. When an officer has visual control, it allows them to see both of the subject's hands, which is essential in assessing whether the subject is armed or poses a threat. This is crucial because hands are often where weapons are held, and being able to observe both hands can provide valuable information about the immediate level of danger.

In situations where an officer must make quick decisions regarding safety, the ability to see the hands of a subject can greatly inform their response and strategy, reducing the risk of ambush or surprise aggression. This practical focus on weapon status informs the officer's next steps, whether that includes de-escalating a situation or preparing for a potential altercation.

While assessing mental state, surrounding environments, and intentions are important aspects of an officer's overall situational awareness, they do not provide the immediate, actionable insight that observing the subject's hands does. Visual control is a foundational principle that ultimately supports the officer’s safety and efficacy in various scenarios.