In light of the totality of the circumstances, was the force used reasonable?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Cannot determine
• D. Unknown

Answer: (A)

Reasonableness is judged by looking at the totality of the circumstances from the perspective of a reasonable officer on the scene, using facts available at the moment of the incident. This means weighing factors like the seriousness of the alleged crime, whether the subject posed an immediate threat to officers or others, and whether the subject was actively resisting or attempting to flee. Additional considerations—such as the number of subjects, the subject’s size or condition, and potential risks to bystanders—help determine if the force used was proportionate and necessary to de-escalate or stop the threat. When these factors indicate that the force was appropriate to the risk and was what a reasonable officer would consider necessary at the time, the force is considered reasonable. That’s why the correct choice states that the force used was reasonable. The other options would only apply if the facts showed the force was excessive, or if there wasn’t enough information to assess reasonableness, which isn’t indicated by the scenario.