What is the justification for the use of deadly force related to the "fleeing felon" rule?

The justification for the use of deadly force in relation to the "fleeing felon" rule is primarily rooted in the landmark case of Tennessee v. Garner. This 1985 Supreme Court decision established critical standards for police use of force, specifically in circumstances involving a fleeing suspect. The Court held that law enforcement officers may not use deadly force to apprehend a suspect who is fleeing, unless the officer has probable cause to believe that the suspect poses an immediate threat of death or serious physical injury to the officer or others.

This decision overruled earlier practices that allowed officers to shoot fleeing felons under broader circumstances, determining instead that the use of deadly force must be justified by a significant threat. Consequently, Tennessee v. Garner places strong constraints on the use of lethal force and emphasizes the importance of assessing the immediate danger posed by a suspect before resorting to such extreme measures. This case has had a lasting impact on police procedures and policies surrounding the use of force in the United States.