What describes a passive resistant suspect?

A passive resistant suspect can be characterized as someone who verbally expresses resistance to authority but does not engage in physical confrontation. This means they may speak out against commands, express their dissent, or display non-compliance verbally, yet they refrain from escalating the situation through physical means. This behavior often requires de-escalation tactics, as the officer may need to address the verbal objections while remaining calm and composed. Recognizing this type of resistance is vital for law enforcement, as it influences the approach taken during interactions, ensuring that the situation remains controlled and safe for all parties involved.

In contrast, compliance with commands indicates a willingness to cooperate, while active resistance implies a direct attempt to use violence against officers, which fundamentally changes the dynamics of the encounter. A suspect who makes no effort to cooperate could be classified as uncooperative but does not encapsulate the nuanced behavior of a passive resistor who engages only verbally.