Originally Posted By: Paragon
The basic premise of the force continuum (force pyramid, etc.) be it for a LEO, a soldier, or simply an average law abiding citizen, is defensive, and only authorizes the use of as much force as is appropriate for a given situation.

Although it varies from state to state, the moral and ethical use of lethal force (or deadly force, or whatever it is termed where you happen to live) is generally authorized only when:
  • There is a real and immediate threat of death, serious injury, or sexual assault such that a normal person believes deadly force is necessary.
  • The threat must be otherwise unavoidable (except for "castle doctrine" exceptions that stipulate one need not retreat from their residence).
  • You must not have instigated the dispute (often may not apply to sworn LEO's).
  • You cannot use more force than is necessary.

Most jurisdictions actually define lethal force to be anything that is "likely to result in death or serious/permanent injury". Technically, most police departments consider striking someone on the head (or knee, or any other bony area) with an impact weapon constitutes the use of lethal force.

Even though there is a very high probability that a double tap to the thoracic cavity (or cranial ocular cavity for someone wearing body armor) will result in death, the intent is merely to stop someone's action. Whether someone lives or dies as a result of being shot should not be of any consequence whatsoever, so long as the immediate threat is stopped.

DISCLAIMER: Every situation is unique, and laws vary greatly from state to state, so do not rely on anything that you think that you know or understand regarding the use of deadly force without first consulting an attorney familiar with the laws of your particular jurisdiction.

Jim


Well stated, and I concur, including the disclaimer.

Jeff


Edited by Jeff_McCann (09/10/08 07:04 PM)