What did the case Tennessee v. Garner establish regarding the use of deadly force?

The case Tennessee v. Garner is a landmark decision that significantly shaped law enforcement's use of deadly force. It established that police officers may only use deadly force when they have probable cause to believe that the suspect poses a significant threat of death or serious injury to the officer or others. This ruling aims to balance the need for law enforcement to protect themselves and the public while also limiting the use of lethal force in situations where it may not be justified.

The essence of this ruling is rooted in the Fourth Amendment, which protects individuals from unreasonable seizure. The decision clarified that the mere act of fleeing a crime scene does not justify the use of deadly force; instead, officers must assess the level of threat posed by the suspect. This precedent emphasizes the importance of evaluating potential danger based on the specific circumstances of the encounter rather than providing blanket authority to use fatal measures in every pursuit.

By understanding the key elements established in Tennessee v. Garner, law enforcement personnel can better navigate their responsibilities and the legal boundaries concerning the use of deadly force while conducting their duties.