The phrase "I'd rather be judged by 12 than carried by 6" encapsulates a mindset often held by law enforcement officers when it comes to the use of force. This saying emphasizes the belief that it might be preferable to face potential legal consequences (judged by a jury of 12) than to risk personal injury or death (carried by six pallbearers).
The use of force continuum, as developed by the Christopher Commission in 1991, provides a structured framework to guide officers in determining the appropriate level of force to use in various situations. It typically ranges from verbal commands and presence to physical restraint and lethal force. The continuum is designed to encourage officers to use the minimum amount of force necessary to de-escalate a situation and ensure safety for all parties involved.
This guiding principle serves to underline the importance of making judicious and proportional decisions when applying force, with a focus on preserving life and maintaining public trust. However, the phrase also reflects a reality in policing where officers must sometimes make difficult and immediate choices under high-stress conditions.