Intentionally striking an inmate on the head with an impact weapon such as a baton is considered _______.

Intentionally striking an inmate on the head with an impact weapon such as a baton is categorized as deadly force due to the high potential for causing severe injury or death. The head is a sensitive area of the body where strikes can lead to serious medical consequences, including concussions, skull fractures, or other life-threatening injuries.

In the context of law enforcement and detention practices, the use of deadly force is justified only under specific and extreme circumstances, typically when there is an imminent threat to the officer's or another person's life. Striking someone intentionally in a vulnerable area, especially with a weapon designed to inflict significant damage, falls well outside the bounds of what is considered necessary for control or defense during an encounter.

Understanding the classification of force levels, such as minimal, excessive, or unnecessary force, helps in recognizing the legal and ethical implications of using such tactics against inmates. However, intentionally targeting the head with a baton surpasses these classifications, making it an unequivocal instance of deadly force.