Which statement correctly identifies a Graham v. Connor factor?

• A. Public Safety
• B. Time of Day
• C. Weather
• D. Severity of the Crime

Answer: (D)

In evaluating whether a use of force is reasonable, the Graham v. Connor framework looks at the totality of circumstances and focuses on three main factors. One of these is the severity of the crime at issue, meaning the seriousness of the alleged offense helps inform how justified a given level of force might be. The other factors are whether the suspect posed an immediate threat to the officer or others and whether the suspect was actively resisting or attempting to evade arrest. Time of day and weather are not part of the Graham v. Connor factors, and while public safety considerations influence decisions, they are not enumerated factors in this test. Therefore, severity of the crime is the Graham v. Connor factor identified by the statement.