Police Use of Deadly Force

According to the Directive, what is the Department's guiding principle when using force?

Reverence for human life

When can officers use deadly force, according to the Directive?

When they reasonably believe it is necessary in defense of human life

What must officers attempt to do before using force, according to the Directive?

Use time, distance, communication, and available resources to de-escalate the situation

According to the text, how should the reasonableness of a particular use of force be judged?

From the perspective of a reasonable officer on the scene Signup and view all the answers

According to the text, why is the test of reasonableness not capable of precise definition or mechanical application?

Because the amount of force necessary in a particular situation can vary Signup and view all the answers

According to the text, how does the Department examine all uses of force?

From an objective standard Signup and view all the answers

According to the text, when can officers use force?

Only when they have reasonable grounds to believe the person is aware of their authority Signup and view all the answers

According to the text, what factors are used to determine the reasonableness of force?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

According to the text, what should officers do if they determine that the use of deadly force is not necessary?

Secure or holster the firearm Signup and view all the answers

According to the text, when should officers draw or exhibit a firearm?

Whenever they believe it may be necessary to use the firearm Signup and view all the answers

According to the text, what is the definition of 'Excessive Force'?

Force that is found to have violated Section 835(a) of the California Penal Code Signup and view all the answers

According to the text, what is the definition of 'Necessary'?

Force that is beyond that which is necessary, as determined by an objectively reasonable officer Signup and view all the answers

According to the text, when should an officer intercede when excessive force is observed?

When the officer believes the force is beyond that which is necessary Signup and view all the answers

According to the text, what is the definition of 'Imminent'?

A present ability, opportunity, and apparent intent to immediately cause death or serious bodily injury Signup and view all the answers

According to the policy, when can an officer use deadly force?

To defend against an imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury to the officer or to another person, or to apprehend a fleeing person for any felony Signup and view all the answers

When determining whether deadly force is necessary, what should officers consider?

Each situation in light of the particular circumstances of each case Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstances can warning shots be used?

Only in exceptional circumstances where it might reasonably be expected to avoid the need to use deadly force Signup and view all the answers

When can firearms be discharged at a moving vehicle?

Whenever a person in the vehicle is immediately threatening the officer or another person with deadly force Signup and view all the answers