Under what circumstances may an officer use deadly force?

Using deadly force is a critical decision that must be guided by a clear understanding of the legal and ethical standards governing law enforcement practices. The correct situation in which an officer may use deadly force occurs when another individual is in imminent danger of death or serious harm, and no other options are feasible. This aligns with the principles of both necessity and proportionality in the use of force.

In scenarios where an individual's life is threatened, officers are trained to prioritize the preservation of life while also considering their own safety and the safety of bystanders. The use of deadly force must be a last resort, employed only when there are no available alternatives that could effectively address the imminent threat.

Other circumstances, such as preserving property or preventing an inmate from escaping, do not meet the criteria for the use of deadly force as established by law enforcement protocols. Additionally, reacting to any form of resistance does not justify the application of lethal force, as there are appropriate levels of non-lethal force that can be applied in those situations. Understanding these principles is essential for officers to ensure they act within legal boundaries while maintaining public safety.