What is meant by "excessive force" in law enforcement?

The term "excessive force" in law enforcement refers specifically to the use of unnecessary force. This means that the level of force applied by law enforcement officers surpasses what is reasonable or justified in a given situation. Excessive force can occur when officers do not match their response to the level of threat or resistance they are facing, leading to potential violations of an individual’s rights and public trust issues. It emphasizes the importance of proportionality and reasonableness in the application of force, ensuring that officers act within established legal and ethical standards.

In contrast, the other options misrepresent the concept of excessive force. The appropriate amount of force should always align with the situation's needs and legal guidelines, while using force to control a situation may be necessary, provided it is reasonable and proportional. Force applied in life-threatening situations might also be justified, but it must still be measured against the necessity of the threat faced. Overall, the principle of excessive force addresses the critical balance law enforcement must maintain in ensuring safety while protecting individual rights.