What is the justification for using deadly force?

The justification for using deadly force primarily centers around the imminent threat of serious harm or death. The correct choice focuses on behavior that causes or threatens death or great bodily harm. This principle is grounded in the necessity to protect oneself or others when faced with an immediate danger that cannot be mitigated through lesser means. Law enforcement officers are trained to assess situations where their safety or the safety of others is at risk and to react accordingly, often following the "reasonable officer" standard, which assesses how a similarly trained officer might respond to a perceived threat.

In some circumstances, using deadly force may be deemed reasonable when a suspect poses an active threat that could result in significant injury or death to an officer or civilians. The training emphasizes that the use of deadly force should always be a last resort, employed only when absolutely necessary to prevent such serious harm. This approach is consistent with legal standards established in self-defense and defense of others, which articulate the importance of addressing imminent threats in law enforcement scenarios.