use of deadly force

Type: Concept

As of November 2026, use of deadly force has been mentioned in one podcast episode on Morning Wire (Feb 2026). Topic discussed in relation to the investigation into fatal shootings by ICE.

Deadly force, also known as lethal force, is a concept in law of the civilian use of force that is likely to cause serious bodily injury or death to another civilian person. In most jurisdictions, the use of deadly force is justified only under conditions of extreme necessity as a last resort, when all lesser means have failed or cannot reasonably be employed.