So, How Much Force Can a Police Officer Use?Join Us For Some Answers

Police Use of Force So, how much force can a police officer use? The Supreme Court Of The United States (SCOTUS) in the following case, GRAHAM v. CONNOR,  490 U.S. 386 (1989). If you care to research this case, you can go to  www.findlaw.com, to research this case or virtually case or law. This case sets the standard for police use of force. The SCOTUS stated that police officers are involved in incidents that are tense, uncertain, and rapidly evolving AND that police use of force should NOT be judged with 20/20 hindsight, but from what a reasonable officer would do. The SCOTUS said nothing about "the minimum amount necessary" which is an impossible standard, and is still in use by many police agencies. Now, enter the cell phone cameras and body worn cameras. Remember, the video records a three-dimensional event in two dimensions, from one specific angle and field of view. Plus, ambient noises, terrain, other officers present or not present, and other important factors may not be recorded. Remember, even reasonable use of force by a police officer looks ugly on video.