What is 'excessive force' in policing?

Excessive force in policing refers to the application of physical force that exceeds what is considered reasonable or necessary under the circumstances. The correct understanding of excessive force hinges on the concept of reasonableness, which is often evaluated in light of the situation at hand, the threat posed, and the actions of the individual being apprehended. In law enforcement, officers are trained to use only the amount of force necessary to safely carry out their duties, which can include restraining a suspect or managing a tense situation.

When force goes beyond what a reasonable officer would employ in a comparable scenario, it is classified as excessive. This understanding is central to discussions around police accountability and the appropriate use of force. It underscores the balance that must be maintained between effective law enforcement and the rights of individuals.

The other options do not accurately capture the full definition and context of excessive force. For instance, simply categorizing any use of physical force by police as excessive overlooks the critical factor of reasonableness in assessing whether the force used was appropriate for the given situation. Additionally, defining it merely as a legal justification or a performance criterion does not encapsulate the foundational principle of proportionality inherent in the concept of excessive force.