What is the first level of control according to the five levels of control?

The first level of control in the five levels of control is officer presence. This level emphasizes the importance of the officer's mere presence in a situation to deter potential criminal behavior or to influence the actions of individuals involved. When an officer arrives at a scene, their visible authority can often prevent escalation and promote compliance, simply because individuals may choose to adjust their behavior when they see a uniformed officer.

Officer presence fosters a sense of safety within the community and serves as a critical method of maintaining order without the need for physical confrontation or any additional force. This fundamental concept is crucial for effective policing and helps officers avoid unnecessary use of force by resolving situations through their professional demeanor and authoritative presence.

The other options represent subsequent levels of control that require further action beyond presence. Verbal direction involves actively communicating commands to gain compliance, while empty-hand control encompasses physical techniques to manipulate or control individuals. Hard copy control is not a recognized level in this context, as it does not pertain to direct police control options. Understanding these levels helps officers choose the appropriate response according to the dynamics of any given situation.