What is a requirement for being liable under civil rights violations in terms of knowledge?

The requirement for being liable under civil rights violations in terms of knowledge is that the officer should have known the violation occurred. This principle is grounded in the notion of responsibility associated with one's role and the expectation that law enforcement officers are aware of the legal standards they are obligated to uphold.

Civil liability often hinges on the concept of "deliberate indifference," where it is understood that an officer who should have been aware of the risk of a civil rights violation can still be held accountable even if they did not directly cause the violation. This standard emphasizes the importance of not only acting within the bounds of the law but also being cognizant of the rights of individuals and the potential for violations to occur. This reflects a broader accountability system intended to ensure that officers remain vigilant and informed regarding the legal implications of their actions and the rights of the individuals they serve.

In contrast, having prior approval, being warned, or being uninformed do not align with the established principles of accountability necessary for civil rights liability, as they do not address the fundamental expectation that officers must actively engage with the law and their duties.