Which statute provides the authority for peace officers to use force during an arrest?

• A. 17-4-20(b)
• B. 16-3-21
• C. 16-3-20
• D. 16-3-24.2

Answer: (A)

The main point is that peace officers may use reasonable force when making an arrest, if needed to overcome resistance, protect themselves or others, and prevent the suspect from escaping. This authority is codified in 17-4-20(b), which explicitly allows such force in arrest situations, with the crucial standard of reasonableness—force should be proportional to the threat and necessary to achieve the lawful objective. That direct authorization makes it the best answer, because the other statutes listed pertain to different aspects of law or use-of-force contexts and do not provide the explicit authorization for force during an arrest.