When is an officer justified to use deadly force?

An officer is justified in using deadly force when there is an imminent threat of deadly physical force. This principle is rooted in the law enforcement use of force continuum, which emphasizes that the level of force applied must be proportional to the threat faced. When an officer encounters a situation where they or another individual is facing a credible and immediate danger of death or serious bodily injury, they are authorized to respond with deadly force to neutralize that threat.

This rationale is vital for ensuring the safety of both law enforcement personnel and the public. It highlights the officer's responsibility to assess situations quickly and accurately, ensuring that they are not using excessive force in cases where the threat does not warrant such a response. In contrast, using deadly force for minor offenses or solely to prevent an escape does not meet the legal threshold required for such an action. Additionally, acting solely under direct orders from a supervisor does not automatically justify the use of deadly force, as the necessity for using such extreme measures must be directly related to the threat level encountered.