Which statement best describes the difference between reasonable force and excessive force?

• A. Reasonable force is not linked to threat.
• B. Reasonable force is proportional to the threat and necessary; excessive force is disproportionate or unnecessary.
• C. Reasonable force is always lethal.
• D. Reasonable force depends on the officer's mood.

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is proportionality and necessity in use of force. Reasonable force is the amount of force that is appropriate for the level of threat and is necessary to achieve a legitimate objective, like stopping a dangerous act or protecting yourself or others. It looks at the situation—what the suspect is doing, the risk to bystanders, and how close you are—to determine the least amount of force needed to resolve the issue.

Excessive force, on the other hand, goes beyond what’s needed or is not proportionate to the threat. It can cause more harm than necessary and isn’t justified by the situation.

So, the correct view is that reasonable force is tied to the threat and required to achieve the objective, while excessive force is disproportionate or unnecessary. The idea that reasonable force isn’t linked to threat, or that it must be lethal, or that it depends on the officer’s mood, doesn’t fit how use-of-force decisions are evaluated.