What must police show to justify the use of force during an arrest?

To justify the use of force during an arrest, police must demonstrate that they made reasonable efforts to de-escalate the situation. This requirement is rooted in the principles of necessity and proportionality, which dictate that law enforcement should first attempt to resolve conflicts without resorting to physical force whenever possible. This approach emphasizes the importance of preserving human life and minimizing harm, reflecting the legal and ethical standards governing police conduct.

While being in a public place can sometimes relate to the dynamics of an arrest, it does not inherently justify the use of force. Similarly, a suspect's prior record may inform an officer's judgment but does not by itself provide a valid basis for using force. Lastly, while a suspect posing an immediate threat is a critical consideration in determining the necessity of force, the failure to make reasonable attempts to de-escalate can undermine the justification for force used, regardless of the threat level presented. Therefore, demonstrating efforts to de-escalate is an essential part of a justified use of force during arrests.