Macon County Law Enforcement Center (MCLC) Comprehensive State Practice Exam

The ruling in Tennessee v. Garner addresses the use of deadly force against whom?

1. Dangerous fleeing felon

2. Non-dangerous fleeing felon

3. Any fleeing suspect

4. Fleeing misdemeanants

The correct answer is: Non-dangerous fleeing felon

The ruling in Tennessee v. Garner specifically addresses the use of deadly force by law enforcement officers against non-dangerous fleeing felons. This landmark case established that police may not use deadly force to stop a suspect from fleeing unless the officer has probable cause to believe that the suspect poses a significant threat of death or serious physical injury to the officer or others. Essentially, the court ruled that the use of deadly force is not justified merely because a suspect is fleeing if they do not pose a danger. This decision emphasizes the importance of assessing the threat level before resorting to lethal measures and sets clear limitations on the authority of law enforcement in pursuing fleeing suspects.