Use of force is considered a Fourth Amendment seizure when?

• A. Physically applying any force to the subject.
• B. Verbal commands only.
• C. The show of force caused the person to stop.
• D. The subject yields to show of force.

Answer: (A)

A seizure under the Fourth Amendment happens when a police action actually restrains a person’s movement by force. The moment physical contact or force is applied, the person’s freedom to move is limited, so that is a seizure. Verbal commands or a show of force without contact do not by themselves seize someone, because the person can still be free to ignore the command or leave unless physical restraint is used. If someone stops or yields only after a show of force, that can indicate submission, but the decisive factor for a seizure is the actual application of physical force.