Under what conditions may police use deadly force to stop a fleeing suspect?

The use of deadly force by police to stop a fleeing suspect is governed by legal standards that emphasize the necessity to protect the officer or the public from imminent harm. The correct answer reflects the circumstances under which the use of deadly force is deemed appropriate.

Specifically, if a suspect threatens an officer with a weapon or if there is probable cause to believe that the suspect has committed a serious crime, officers are justified in employing deadly force. This is rooted in the obligation of law enforcement to ensure their own safety and the safety of others. In these scenarios, the potential risk posed by the suspect outweighs the value of preserving life, leading to a justification for the use of deadly force.

In contrast, the other options lack the necessary conditions for justifying deadly force. If a suspect is unarmed and poses no threat, or if the officer feels personally threatened without additional cause, or in chaotic situations without a clear justification, these scenarios do not meet the legal thresholds established by policy and training.