What is the ruling of the Casey v. Garner case regarding the use of deadly force by police officers?

The ruling in the Casey v. Garner case established that police officers may use deadly force to stop a fleeing suspect under specific circumstances. The key consideration in this ruling is the assessment of whether the suspect poses a significant threat of death or serious bodily harm to the officer or others. This case clarified the legal guidelines for using lethal force, emphasizing that it should be reserved for situations where there is an immediate threat, rather than a blanket permission to use deadly force in all cases of fleeing suspects. The decision thereby aims to balance the need for effective law enforcement with the protection of civil rights.

Understanding this ruling is critical for police officers as it guides their actions in high-pressure situations, ensuring that they comply with legal standards while maintaining public safety.