Which statement best defines deadly force?

• A. The use of any force to detain a suspect
• B. The intentional use of a firearm or other instrument, the use of which would result in a high probability of death or great bodily harm
• C. Non-lethal force used to restrain
• D. Force that would cause no harm

Answer: (B)

Deadly force means using force with the potential to cause death or serious injury. The statement that best defines it points to the intentional use of a weapon or instrument in a way that would result in a high probability of death or great bodily harm. This emphasizes both the purpose (intentional use) and the likely outcome (death or serious harm), which distinguishes deadly force from other types of force. It isn’t simply detaining someone, nor is it non-lethal force or force that causes no harm. In practice, deadly force is a last-resort option used only when there is an imminent threat of death or great bodily harm to oneself or others.