What criterion must be met for a peace officer to justify their use of force?

For a peace officer to justify their use of force, it must be legally authorized. This means that the use of force must align with established laws and regulations governing law enforcement actions. In the context of New York City and similar jurisdictions, the legal framework provides guidelines on when and how much force can be used. This criterion ensures that officers act within the boundaries of the law, upholding the rights of individuals while also protecting themselves and the public.

Justifying force requires that the officer's actions are not arbitrary but are instead rooted in a lawful basis, which may involve the need to protect oneself or others, prevent a crime, or effectuate an arrest. The legality of the action is crucial as it protects both the officer and the integrity of the law enforcement process.

In contrast, options that involve supervisor approval or premeditation do not necessarily reflect legal authorization. A direct response to a threat is a relevant consideration, but it must also be within the framework of legal authority for the use of force to be justified.