What is considered "excessive force" in law enforcement?

The concept of "excessive force" in law enforcement is defined as the use of force that exceeds what is necessary to effectively manage a situation. This definition is rooted in the principles of proportionality and necessity, which dictate that law enforcement officers should utilize only the minimum amount of force required to achieve their objective.

When officers apply force, it must be appropriate to the circumstances they face; if they go beyond this and employ greater force than what is warranted, that constitutes excessive force. This is particularly relevant in situations where individuals are compliant or present no threat, and a higher level of force is still applied.

Understanding this concept is crucial for law enforcement as it informs their training, policy-making, and response strategies, ensuring they adhere to legal and ethical standards while interacting with the public.