In which case was the use of deadly force deemed reasonable under specific circumstances?

The case of Tennessee v. Garner is significant in discussions of the use of deadly force in law enforcement. In this landmark case, the Supreme Court ruled that the use of deadly force to prevent the escape of a fleeing felon is unconstitutional under the Fourth Amendment unless the officer has probable cause to believe that the suspect poses a significant threat of death or serious physical injury to the officer or others.

This decision established a clear guideline for officers: they must assess the immediate threat posed by the suspect before employing deadly force. The ruling emphasizes a balance between the community's interest in apprehending suspects and the individual's right to be free from unnecessary force. In essence, the case set forth that deadly force is considered reasonable only in situations where the threat to life is imminent, ensuring that law enforcement actions are consistent with constitutional protections against unreasonable seizures.

Understanding this case is crucial for any instructor or student of use of force policies, as it provides a legal framework for when the use of deadly force may be justified.