Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 161 § 161.233 — Use of
Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 161 ·
Oregon Code § 161.233·Enacted ·Last updated March 01, 2026
Statute Text
Use of
physical force by peace officer.
(1) A peace officer may use physical force upon another person only when it is
objectively reasonable, under the totality of circumstances known to the peace
officer, to believe:
(a) That the
person poses an imminent threat of physical injury to the peace officer or to a
third person; or
(b) That the use
of physical force is necessary to:
(A) Make a lawful
arrest when the peace officer has probable cause to believe the person has
committed a crime; or
(B) Prevent the
escape from custody of the person when the peace officer has probable cause to
believe the person has committed a crime.
(2) A peace
officer may use physical force upon another person under this section only to
the degree that the peace officer reasonably believes necessary to prevent
physical injury under subsection (1)(a) of this section or to carry out a
purpose described in subsection (1)(b) of this section.
(3) Prior to
using physical force upon another person, if the peace officer has a reasonable
opportunity to do so, the peace officer shall:
(a) Consider
alternatives such as verbal de-escalation, waiting or using other available
resources and techniques if reasonable, safe and feasible; and
(b) Give a verbal
warning to the person that physical force may be used and provide the person
with a reasonable opportunity to comply. [2020 s.s.2 c.3 §7]
Plain English Explanation
This Oregon statute addresses Use of
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Key Points
01Part of Oregon statutory law
02Referenced as Oregon Code § 161.233
03Subject to legislative amendments
04Consult a licensed attorney for application to specific cases
Frequently Asked Questions
This section of Oregon law addresses Use of
. Read the full statute text above for details.
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The formal citation is Oregon Code § 161.233. Use this format in legal documents and court filings.
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