What category describes a subject who actively resists an officer's commands?

The category that describes a subject who actively resists an officer's commands is referred to as an active resistor. This term specifically indicates that the individual is not only refusing to comply with commands but is doing so in a more forceful or assertive manner. Active resistance can manifest through physical actions that interrupt the officer’s ability to perform their duties, such as refusing to move or attempting to escape.

In contrast, passive compliant individuals would typically follow commands, albeit perhaps with reluctance or without enthusiasm. Passive resistors might display non-compliance by refusing to cooperate but do so without overt physical actions, showing a lack of direct confrontation. On the other hand, active aggressors take their resistance a step further by potentially posing a threat through hostile actions aimed at causing harm to the officer, which is a different and more severe behavior than simple resistance. Understanding these distinctions is essential for officers as they gauge the appropriate level of response to various situations during law enforcement encounters.