In Tennessee vs. Garner, what must an officer have to use deadly force?

In the case of Tennessee vs. Garner, the Supreme Court established that law enforcement officers may use deadly force to apprehend a fleeing suspect only if they have probable cause to believe that the suspect poses a significant threat of death or serious physical injury to the officer or others. This key standard reflects the need for officers to make split-second decisions regarding their own safety and the safety of the public while balancing the rights of individuals.

Probable cause refers to the reasonable belief, based on facts and circumstances, that a crime has been or will be committed. In this context, it means that officers must have sufficient evidence or information to determine that the suspect presents a genuine and immediate danger, thereby justifying the use of deadly force.

A requirement of absolute certainty would set an impractically high standard for officers in life-threatening situations, which could hinder their ability to protect themselves and others effectively. Similarly, the presence of a weapon or having a warrant is not necessary to establish the immediate threat level required to use deadly force according to the principles established by the court.