Which of the following is a technique to maintain control during a pat down?

Maintaining control during a pat down is essential for the safety of both the officer and the subject. Keeping the subject off balance is a significant technique that helps ensure the officer remains in control of the interaction. This can be achieved through various means, such as positioning the officer's body, using verbal commands, and ensuring the subject is not in a position to alter the pace or flow of the encounter.

When an officer keeps a subject off balance, it can prevent the subject from gaining the upper hand or attempting to escape, resist, or manipulate the situation to their advantage. This technique also helps in minimizing the potential for confrontation or escalation of force, enabling a more secure and controlled environment during the pat down.

Other techniques, such as relying on the subject to dictate the process or performing a pat down without proper observation, can lead to unsafe circumstances. Allowing the subject to have too much power during the encounter might result in a breakdown of control, while searching quickly without paying attention can lead to missed threats or evidence. Additionally, failing to request cooperation could indicate a lack of clear communication, which is critical in managing the situation effectively.