- Here is answer generated by ChatGPT.
The basics:
No single nationwide statute exclusively governs police use of deadly force. Instead, it is governed by:
- Constitutional standards (Supreme Court)
- Federal agency policies (for federal officers)
- State criminal statutes
- Local law-enforcement agency policies
Together these layers define when deadly force is lawful, placing emphasis on reasonable belief of imminent threat, necessity, and de-escalation.
Key Legal Principles Across These Layers
Objective Reasonableness: Derived from the Fourth Amendment / Graham v. Connor: courts judge an officer’s use of force from the perspective of a reasonable officer on the scene, considering totality of circumstances.
Imminent Threat Requirement: Deadly force is justified only when an officer reasonably believes there is an immediate threat of death or serious bodily harm to the officer or others.
Necessity and De-escalation: Many states and agency policies require that deadly force be necessary—officers should use lesser force or de-escalation if possible.
Warnings When Feasible: Policies often require warnings before deadly force is applied when it can be safely given (e.g., “Police, don’t move!”).
