A baton-permitted guard strikes a non-resisting handcuffed subject with the baton 'to make sure they cooperate later.' Legally, this is:
Explanation
A baton strike on a non-resisting, restrained subject is force unrelated to any continuing threat or resistance. It violates the reasonableness standard and constitutes battery (§242); because the baton is a weapon likely to produce great bodily injury, §245 (assault with a deadly weapon) may apply, a felony. BSIS may revoke or suspend the Baton Permit and Guard Card under BPC §7585.10 and related provisions. Options (a), (c), (d) endorse plainly unlawful conduct and would create severe criminal, civil, and regulatory exposure.
Law Reference: Cal. Business & Professions Code §7585.10; reasonable-force doctrineThis topic, taught in full in the California Guard Card (BSIS Security Guard) guide. California Guard Card — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $9.99 · 14-day refund →
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