Deadly Force in the United States

Police in the United States: Contemporary Issues and Trends Use of Deadly Force

Introduction to Deadly Force

No issue provokes more intense controversy within minority communities than police policy concerning the use of force, especially deadly force. Some police officials and most minority community leaders believe that a police officer should use a firearm only in defense of a life (either that of the officer or of some other person) in immediate jeopardy. Others think that existing state laws, many of which permit an officer to use any force necessary to arrest a suspected felon, should not be limited by local policies.” (1)

Resources

Notes and References

• Information about Deadly Force in the Encarta Online Encyclopedia

Guide to Deadly Force