Under what circumstances is it permissible to utilize reasonable force during an arrest?

Utilizing reasonable force during an arrest is permissible primarily to prevent a suspect from fleeing. This principle aligns with the law enforcement's duty to ensure public safety and uphold legal processes. When an officer believes a suspect may escape, applying reasonable force becomes necessary to maintain control over the situation and to ensure that the arrest can be completed effectively.

Reasonable force is defined as the minimum amount of force necessary to safely secure a suspect and mitigate any potential risks to the officer, the suspect, or the public. This approach emphasizes the principle that force should be proportional to the circumstances faced by law enforcement.

While force can also be warranted in other contexts—such as when a suspect shows aggression or when an officer perceives a necessary situation—the primary purpose for employing reasonable force focuses on preventing the escape of a suspect. The answer choice concerning life-threatening situations pertains more to self-defense or defense of others rather than the core justification for using reasonable force in an arrest context. Lastly, applying force solely based on an officer's feelings would not adhere to the established legal standards regarding the use of force, which require a reasonable and justifiable cause.