When encountering a shooter, which option is NOT available to officers?

Engaging in negotiation with a shooter is often not a viable option for law enforcement officers in critical situations due to the immediacy and potential danger involved. When dealing with an active shooter scenario, officers must prioritize the safety of victims and bystanders, which typically requires decisive action rather than attempts at negotiation.

The context of the situation generally dictates that officers confront a shooter either by seeking cover while challenging them or using deadly force if the situation escalates to a significant threat to life. Arresting the shooter immediately may also not be feasible, as the threat posed by the suspect could be too great to allow for an immediate apprehension without first ensuring the safety of the surrounding area.

In contrast, negotiating requires time and stability, which are usually lacking in an active shooter situation. As such, the decision to avoid negotiation aligns with established protocols for managing high-risk incidents where time is critical, and threats must be neutralized swiftly.