Under what condition can the use of force be justified to prevent an escape?

The justification for using force to prevent an escape is based on the concept of probable cause. This means that an officer must have a reasonable belief that an individual has committed a crime or that they pose a threat to public safety. If an officer has probable cause, they are legally permitted to use reasonable force to prevent that individual from escaping. This aligns with the principles of law enforcement and the protection of public safety.

Using force without probable cause would not only be legally questionable but could also lead to violations of an individual's rights. It's essential for law enforcement actions, including the use of force, to be grounded in a solid legal framework, which is why probable cause is a critical prerequisite in this scenario.

While reasonable force might be discussed in conjunction with probable cause, the key factor that enables an officer to act is this demonstrable belief about the individual’s potential threat or activity. Thus, the use of force isn't arbitrary but rather contingent on the officer meeting this standard of probable cause.