According to a ranking system of the use of force, which is considered the least serious?

Verbal commands are considered the least serious form of use of force in law enforcement rankings. They constitute a non-physical method of communication that is intended to direct or control the behavior of individuals without resorting to physical intervention. The purpose of using verbal commands is to de-escalate situations and resolve conflicts through communication, thereby minimizing the risk of injury to both the officer and the subject.

In contrast to verbal commands, control holds involve physical restraint techniques that may require physical contact and could potentially lead to increased tension or resistance from the individual being detained. Strikes or punches represent a much more aggressive and serious level of force, as they involve an intention to cause physical harm. Chemical incapacitants, such as tear gas or pepper spray, are also on the higher end of the use-of-force spectrum, as they are designed to disable an individual through chemical means, which can have significant health consequences.

Thus, verbal commands are used as the first line of response to maintain order before escalating to more serious tactics, highlighting their role as the least serious approach in the continuum of force used by law enforcement.