What does the term 'deadly force' refer to in law enforcement?

The term 'deadly force' in law enforcement specifically refers to the use of force that is likely to cause death or serious bodily injury. This concept is highly significant in policing, as it governs the conditions under which officers may use such force, typically outlining the critical need to protect lives and prevent serious harm. In situations where an officer reasonably believes their life or the lives of others are in imminent danger, the use of potentially deadly force may be deemed justifiable.

The distinctions with other options further clarify the specific meaning of deadly force. For example, while force that can injure an individual covers a broader range of actions that may not necessarily be life-threatening, physical restraints are techniques used to control or detain a suspect without causing serious harm. Similarly, verbal threats do not involve physical force at all and are not considered when discussing the use of deadly force in law enforcement scenarios. Understanding this context reinforces the importance of the term in law enforcement practices and policies.