Under what circumstances can physical force be used in defense of premises?

The correct choice emphasizes that physical force may be utilized to prevent an unauthorized individual from committing or attempting to commit a criminal trespass. This principle is rooted in the concept of protecting one's property and ensuring that individuals cannot unlawfully invade or intrude upon it. The law often permits individuals to use reasonable force to stop an immediate threat to their premises, especially in cases where the trespassers pose a risk of committing theft or vandalism.

Physical force must be proportionate to the threat; hence, it can only be employed if the invasion is happening or is about to happen, and the force must not be excessive. This choice aligns with the legal framework that seeks to balance the rights of property owners with the rights of individuals, ensuring that the use of force is justifiable in the context of protecting premises from crime.

The other options suggest scenarios where physical force either extends beyond the acceptable limits of defense or applies to situations where imminent threats are not present, thereby falling outside the legal justification for using force in the context of defending property.