When is it acceptable for an officer to use deadly force?

The appropriate use of deadly force by an officer is justified when there is a belief that an imminent threat to life exists. This principle is rooted in the justification that officers have a duty to protect themselves and others from serious harm or death. Imminent threats can arise from situations where an individual poses a significant danger, such as armed suspects threatening to use a weapon. In these scenarios, the officer's response must be measured against the immediate risk presented to life.

The other choices highlight circumstances that may be challenging for an officer, but they do not meet the criteria for using deadly force. Severe verbal abuse does not constitute a physical threat, fleeing does not inherently pose a lethal risk, and control of a non-violent offender typically involves non-lethal methods. Hence, the emphasis in law enforcement training and policy is firmly on the necessity of a clear and present danger when considering the use of deadly force.