What principle did Graham Vs. Connor establish regarding use of force?

The principle established by Graham v. Connor centers on the requirement that the use of force by law enforcement officers must be objectively reasonable. This landmark Supreme Court case assessed whether a police officer's actions were appropriate in a specific encounter, particularly when looking at the circumstances under which the force was used.

The objective reasonableness standard means that an officer's actions are evaluated based on what a reasonable officer would have done in the same situation, considering the facts and circumstances confronting them at the time. This standard allows for a consideration of the split-second decisions that officers often have to make in tense and rapidly evolving situations. In weighing the reasonableness of the force used, factors like the severity of the crime, whether the suspect poses an immediate threat to the safety of officers or others, and whether the suspect is actively resisting arrest or attempting to evade arrest can all play a critical role.

The focus on objectivity is crucial because it helps protect officers from unjust scrutiny while also ensuring accountability for their actions. Thus, the ruling aims to balance the rights of individuals with the need for law enforcement to operate effectively in maintaining public safety.