What does “excessive force” mean in the context of police use of force?

The definition of "excessive force" within the context of police use of force primarily refers to force that exceeds what is considered reasonable or necessary to accomplish a lawful objective. This concept is crucial in law enforcement as it seeks to balance the need for officers to perform their duties effectively while also respecting the rights and dignity of individuals.

In practice, assessing whether force is excessive typically involves evaluating the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the threat level posed by the individual being confronted, the presence of any resistance, and the overall context of the situation. The law tends to stipulate that officers must use only that level of force which is proportional to the threat. If the level of force used is disproportionately high in relation to the situation at hand, it is deemed excessive and thus unlawful.

This understanding is essential for police accountability and maintaining public trust in law enforcement agencies. It allows for a framework within which officers can operate while providing mechanisms for accountability when their actions are out of line with legal and ethical standards.