Which factor must an officer consider to justify the use of deadly force?

An officer must consider the presence of a weapon or an indicated threat to justify the use of deadly force. This consideration is crucial because the use of deadly force is a last resort in situations where an officer or others are in imminent danger of serious bodily harm or death.

When assessing the situation, the officer must evaluate whether the subject poses a legitimate threat that warrants such a severe response. The presence of a weapon often signifies an immediate threat and can escalate the level of force that the officer believes is necessary to protect themselves or others. Furthermore, an indicated threat—such as aggressive behavior or verbal threats—can also lead an officer to conclude that deadly force is justified in order to prevent potential harm.

Considering factors like personal feelings, public image, or a desire to assert authority does not provide a legitimate basis for using deadly force. These factors could lead to biased decision-making and do not meet the legal and ethical standards required for such a serious action. Understanding the objective criteria for the use of deadly force is key to ensuring law enforcement acts within the confines of the law and maintains public trust.