How is "excessive force" defined in the context of police conduct?

Excessive force in the context of police conduct is defined as using more physical force than necessary to fulfill legal duties. This implies that law enforcement officers are expected to use a level of force that is proportional to the situation at hand. The use of excessive force violates the principles of reasonable policing and can lead to significant consequences for both the officer and the department, including legal ramifications and loss of public trust.

In practical terms, when an officer applies more force than required to achieve a lawful objective, such as making an arrest or defending themselves, it crosses the threshold into excessive force. This definition is guided by legal standards, primarily established through case law, which emphasizes the importance of evaluating the necessity and appropriateness of the force used in accordance with the circumstances known to the officer at the time.

While the other options reference aspects of physical force, they do not accurately capture the concept of excessive force. For example, using minimal physical force during an arrest, or applying force based on a suspect's response, can be appropriate under certain circumstances. Restraining suspects without cause, while potentially problematic, is more about legality and justification rather than the specific application of excessive force. Thus, the correct definition aligns with the understanding of appropriate levels of force mandated in law enforcement