Section 22. Use Of Force

Juvenile justice services restricts the use of physical force, including the use of physical and mechanical restraints, to instances of justifiable self-defense, protection of a client from hurting him or herself, protection of others, protection of property, and the prevention of escapes. Physical force is only used as a last resort in accordance with applicable law, statute and juvenile justice services’ policy and procedure. In no 8.14.5 NMAC 4 event is physical force justifiable as punishment or may the force used exceed what is reasonably required to control the individual or situation.