What principle governs the use of force by law enforcement?

The principle of proportionality governs the use of force by law enforcement as it emphasizes that the level of force applied in any situation must be appropriate to the threat faced. This means that law enforcement must assess the circumstances carefully and ensure that the response is not excessive compared to the level of threat or resistance encountered. For instance, if an officer is faced with a non-violent suspect, the use of lethal force would clearly be disproportionate.

This principle is critical in maintaining public trust and ensuring that the use of force is justified and measured. It also serves to protect the rights of individuals against excessive use of force, ensuring law enforcement actions remain within reasonable boundaries of what is deemed necessary to achieve compliance or neutralize a threat. The importance of proportionality is recognized across various legal standards and law enforcement policies, reinforcing the need for officers to make decisions that align with this principle.