When can an officer legally use deadly force?

The legal use of deadly force by an officer is primarily justified when there is an imminent threat to life or serious bodily injury. This principle is rooted in the necessity for law enforcement to protect themselves and others from immediate and severe harm. When an officer perceives an active threat, such as an armed individual who poses a danger to themselves or others, they may respond with deadly force to neutralize that threat.

Using deadly force in this context aligns with established standards and guidelines on the appropriate use of force, where the preservation of life takes precedence in the face of grave danger. This justification underscores the urgency and dire circumstances that warrant such an extreme measure, ensuring that officers act in a manner that prioritizes safety and threat mitigation.

In contrast, using deadly force to apprehend a fleeing suspect or to protect property does not meet the legal threshold necessitating its use, as these situations typically do not involve an immediate threat of severe harm to life. Additionally, while pursuing a dangerous suspect may appear to involve serious situations, it does not automatically justify deadly force unless there is a clear and present danger to life.