Under what condition can an officer be held personally liable for the use of force?

An officer can be held personally liable for the use of force if it is deemed excessive or unreasonable. This principle rests on the legal concept that law enforcement officers are expected to use reasonable force in the execution of their duties. When force is applied beyond what is necessary to manage a situation, it may violate both legal standards and individuals' constitutional rights, leading to personal liability for the officer involved. Courts will assess the totality of the circumstances, including factors such as the severity of the suspected offense, whether the suspect posed an immediate threat, and whether they were actively resisting arrest.

The evaluation of reasonableness typically draws from established case law and statutes that guide officer conduct, emphasizing the need for officers to act within the bounds of law and policy. Liability for excessive force can arise from civil suits, such as those filed under Section 1983 for civil rights violations, highlighting the importance of officers adhering to proper use of force protocols.