Under which circumstances are armed personnel NOT authorized to use deadly force?

Armed personnel are not authorized to use deadly force to apprehend a suspected fugitive because the use of lethal force is generally considered excessive in situations where the threat to life is not immediate. The rationale behind this is that apprehending individuals who are suspected of crimes does not equate to an imminent threat that warrants deadly force. Law enforcement and military doctrine emphasize the importance of using the minimum necessary force; thus, alternatives should be utilized whenever possible to safely capture a suspect without endangering lives.

In contrast, there are specific circumstances where the use of deadly force is deemed appropriate, such as in self-defense, to prevent an imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm. Similarly, deadly force may be authorized to prevent the escape of a suspect if they pose a direct and immediate threat to others. Protection of property can also justify the use of deadly force under certain conditions, especially if human life is at risk. However, the apprehension of a suspected fugitive, in isolation, is not sufficient grounds for the use of deadly force.