Under what condition can the use of deadly force be restricted?

The use of deadly force is a serious matter and is governed by the principles of appropriateness and necessity. When determining whether the application of deadly force is justified, it must be analyzed under the lens of reasonableness. If the force employed by an officer is deemed not to be reasonable in the circumstances encountered, then that use of deadly force can and should be restricted.

Reasonableness typically involves assessing the situation from the perspective of a reasonable officer on the scene, taking into account the totality of the circumstances and whether the officer is facing an imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm. Factors such as the perceived threat level, the presence of other alternatives, and the proportionality of the force in relation to the situation will all play a role in this determination.

In contrast, uncertainty or the presence of backup officers does not inherently justify or restrict the use of force. State law may provide varying guidelines, but it is the reasonableness of the force in the specific situation that primarily dictates its appropriateness. Therefore, the correct choice highlights the importance of evaluating whether the use of deadly force is reasonable according to the circumstances at hand.