Which factors are considered for the reasonableness of use of force in Graham v. Connor?

The correct answer centers on the critical factors established in the Graham v. Connor case, which set a standard for evaluating the reasonableness of use of force by law enforcement officers. The seminal decision clarified that the reasonableness of force must be judged from the perspective of a reasonable officer on the scene, considering the specific circumstances they faced.

In this context, one key principle established by the ruling is that the evaluation should focus particularly on the severity of the alleged crime and whether the suspect poses an immediate threat to the safety of officers or others. These considerations are crucial in determining the legality and appropriateness of the force used.

Factors like whether the suspect is cooperative and their history of prior convictions, while relevant in certain contexts, are secondary and do not fundamentally influence the key elements of reasonableness in a threatening scenario. Additionally, subjective elements such as an officer's personal feelings about a suspect or external opinions from witnesses do not provide an objective basis for evaluating force use under the established legal framework. Instead, the situation must be assessed based on the tangible, immediate threat present at the moment of the encounter, emphasizing the need for a swift and judicious response from law enforcement.