Which case law outlines the 3-Prong Test for Reasonableness regarding suspect encounters?

The case law that outlines the 3-Prong Test for Reasonableness regarding suspect encounters is Graham v. Connor. This landmark decision established a standard for evaluating the use of force by law enforcement officers. The Supreme Court ruled that the use of force must be evaluated from the perspective of a reasonable officer on the scene, taking into account the facts and circumstances confronting them.

In Graham v. Connor, the Court emphasized three key areas to assess whether the use of force was reasonable:

1. The severity of the crime at issue.

2. Whether the suspect posed an immediate threat to the safety of the officers or others.

3. Whether the suspect was actively resisting arrest or attempting to evade arrest by flight.

By applying this 3-Prong Test, law enforcement officers and courts can better determine if the force used in a specific situation was justified based on the particular circumstances present at that time. This case is crucial for understanding the legal standards that govern law enforcement encounters with suspects, ensuring that a balance is struck between maintaining public safety and protecting individual rights.