Under what circumstances may police use deadly force to effect an arrest?

Study for the MBE Critical Pass Test. Enhance your knowledge with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Prepare thoroughly for your exam with detailed hints and explanations.

Deadly force in making an arrest is not something used to deter people or as a general tool for any fleeing suspect. It’s allowed only when necessary to stop a fleeing suspect who poses a real threat to life or serious bodily harm. The familiar rule is that officers may use deadly force to prevent the escape of a fleeing felon if there is probable cause to believe the felon poses a significant threat or is armed and dangerous, making escape reasonably likely to cause serious harm. So the scenario focuses on stopping a dangerous, fleeing felon, not on deterring ordinary suspects or arresting non-felons in a crowded area. The option reflecting preventing the escape of a fleeing felon aligns with that restricted, threat-based standard.