When is the use of deadly force permitted?

The use of deadly force is permitted when all lesser means have failed, indicating a critical situation where an imminent threat exists and there are no viable alternatives to prevent harm. This principle emphasizes the necessity of exhausting all other options, prioritizing de-escalation and the use of non-lethal measures whenever possible. It embodies the idea that deadly force should be a last resort, reserved for circumstances where a person’s life is in imminent danger, and there are no other effective means available to ensure safety or compliance.

Other choices present scenarios that do not align with the standards typically established for the use of deadly force. Asserting authority over civilians is not a valid justification for using deadly force, as this undermines the principles of proportionality and necessity. Regular training exercises are conducted under controlled conditions where the use of deadly force is not warranted. Lastly, while self-defense may justify the use of deadly force, it does not capture the broader context of using such force only when all other means have failed. Thus, the principle of exhausting lesser means before resorting to deadly force remains the cornerstone of responsible and lawful application in these situations.