Which case law states that deadly force may not be used on a fleeing suspect unless necessary?

The case law that states deadly force may not be used on a fleeing suspect unless necessary is Tennessee v. Garner. This landmark decision established important legal standards regarding the use of deadly force by law enforcement. The ruling held that law enforcement officers can only use deadly force to prevent a suspect from fleeing if there is probable cause to believe that the suspect poses a significant threat of death or serious physical injury to the officer or others. This case emphasized the need to balance the interests of law enforcement with the rights of individuals, underscoring the principle that deadly force should be a last resort.

This decision is significant because it established clear guidelines for police conduct during pursuits, thereby ensuring that officers use deadly force only in the most extreme situations where it is justified to protect human life. Understanding this precedent is crucial for peace officers as they navigate situations involving suspects fleeing from police.