use of Force

Priorities of Life

1. Victims/citizens

2. Officers

3. Suspects

Tennessee v. Garner

a police officer may use deadly force to prevent the escape of a fleeing suspect only if the officer has a good-faith belief that the suspect poses a significant threat of death or serious physical injury to the officer or others.

Reasonableness of Search and Seizure

Government interest vs Individual’s 4th Amendment interest

Do you have fear for your life to use deadly use of force?

No

Graham v Connor

Objectively reasonable standard. Using the facts the officer witnesses to conduct a stop is okay as long as it’s reasonable.

Scot v Harris

established that a police officer's use of force, like ramming a fleeing car to end a dangerous high-speed chase, can be considered objectively reasonable under the Fourth Amendment, even if it causes serious injury, especially when a dashcam video shows the suspect's reckless actions.

Civil Rights Act Title 42, USC S1983

is vital because it offers a federal court remedy against state and local officials who abuse their power, ensuring constitutional rights aren't just words on paper.