According to AM 20.012, firearms may be discharged when confronted by what situation?

• A. Only during self-defense
• B. When the subject is compliant
• C. When responding to non-weapon contact
• D. When confronted by an animal which presents an immediate threat to the officer or another person

Answer: (D)

The key concept here is when lethal force is permitted under AM 20.012. The rule recognizes that an immediate threat to life or safety can justify discharging a firearm, and this includes threats from dangerous animals.

The situation described—confronted by an animal that presents an immediate threat to the officer or another person—is the scenario that fits that criteria. When an animal is charging or posing an immediate danger and there are no practical alternatives to prevent harm, using a firearm to stop the threat is justified under this policy.

The other options don’t describe an immediate danger that would justify a firearm discharge. A statement limited to self-defense is too narrow and wouldn’t cover all justified animal threats; a compliant subject or a non-weapon contact scenario does not present the imminent danger required to justify firing.