Which standard is required for an officer's use of force?

The standard of "objective reasonableness based on circumstances" is integral to an officer's use of force because it establishes a measurable standard that ensures actions are evaluated based on an officer's perspective while considering the situation at hand. This standard requires officers to assess whether their response to a perceived threat is appropriate in light of the facts known to them at that moment, taking into account the severity of the threat, the level of resistance encountered, and the potential danger to others involved.

This approach strives to promote accountability by allowing for an objective analysis of the officer’s actions rather than a subjective or purely personal judgment. It provides a framework that protects both the officer and the individuals involved, ensuring that force is utilized only when reasonably necessary to achieve a lawful purpose, such as protecting oneself or others from harm, and is proportionate to the threat faced.

In contrast, relying solely on subjective assessments can lead to inconsistencies in how force is applied, while personal judgment without guidelines lacks the necessary structure for evaluating encounters. Additionally, requiring approval from a superior after the fact does not ensure that officers act within legal and ethical limits at the moment the decision to use force is made.