Which is a key characteristic of defensive tactics used by criminal justice officers?

The key characteristic of defensive tactics used by criminal justice officers being based on a combination of martial arts highlights the importance of technique, discipline, and effectiveness in close-quarter situations. This combination is essential because martial arts provide a structured approach that encompasses a variety of moves, strategies, and principles designed for self-defense and the restraint of subjects.

The integration of these techniques allows officers to handle confrontations with both efficiency and safety, using practiced skills that enable them to de-escalate situations or protect themselves when necessary. By utilizing martial arts, defensive tactics not only focus on the physical aspect of control but also on principles such as balance, leverage, and joint manipulation, which can be particularly beneficial in restraining individuals without causing unnecessary harm.

This characteristic underscores the need for officers to receive formal training in these techniques, ensuring they can apply them effectively under pressure. While elements like verbal communication skills and physical fitness are certainly important components of an officer's overall skill set, the foundation of defensive tactics relies heavily on the structured techniques derived from martial arts training.