What must be true for an officer to use deadly force against a fleeing felon?

In order for an officer to lawfully use deadly force against a fleeing felon, it is necessary that, when feasible, a warning be issued prior to the use of such force. This principle stems from the requirement that law enforcement officers should seek to use the least amount of force necessary to apprehend suspects. Providing a warning, when possible, serves multiple purposes: it respects the suspect's life, it allows the individual the opportunity to surrender, and it demonstrates that officers are attempting to act within a reasonable and restrained framework.

In many jurisdictions, the use of deadly force is scrutinized rigorously, and officers must articulate that their actions were necessary to prevent the immediate threat to themselves or others. A verbal warning aligns with the concept of proportionality in the use of force and fosters accountability.

Consequently, the assertion that deadly force is justified without any conditions or warning is not an acceptable stance. Moreover, a requirement for the suspect to possess a weapon at all times is not accurate, as the justification for deadly force also depends on the officer's reasonable perception of threat, not just the presence of a weapon. Finally, the blanket prohibition of deadly force is equally misleading since law enforcement may be permitted to use it under critical and specific circumstances that are legally