Use of Deadly Force

The use of deadly force is a last resort and should only be exercised when it is legally justified to prevent imminent death or serious bodily harm. Security officers must understand the laws governing the use of deadly force, as misuse can result in criminal charges, civil liability, job loss, or imprisonment. Every decision involving deadly force must be legally, ethically, and professionally justified.

Disclaimer

This training is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Security officers must consult their supervisor, a licensed firearms instructor, and state or federal laws to ensure full compliance with deadly force regulations. Laws vary by jurisdiction, and officers are responsible for understanding the specific laws applicable to their duty location.

Legal Justifications for Using Deadly Force

Deadly force is only justified when:

There is an imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm to the security officer or others.
All reasonable alternatives (de-escalation, retreat, non-lethal force) have failed or are not feasible.
The security officer is acting in self-defense or defense of others under the applicable laws.

Key Factors in Justifying Deadly Force

Security officers must be able to articulate why deadly force was necessary based on the following criteria:

Ability – The suspect has the means (weapon, physical strength, or tool) to cause serious harm.
Opportunity – The suspect is in a position where they can immediately inflict harm.
Intent – The suspect’s actions clearly indicate they are about to cause serious injury or death.

All three factors must be present for deadly force to be legally justified. If any one of these is missing, the use of deadly force may not be warranted.

Situations Where Deadly Force is NOT Justified

Protecting property alone – Deadly force cannot be used solely to prevent theft or property damage.
Preventing a suspect from fleeing – Unless the suspect poses an immediate deadly threat, shooting a fleeing individual is generally unlawful.
Engaging in a verbal confrontation – Security officers cannot use deadly force in response to insults, threats, or non-physical aggression.
Attempting to control a non-lethal disturbance – Deadly force is not justified against individuals who are disorderly but not an immediate threat.

Understanding the Use-of-Force Continuum

Security officers should follow a graduated use-of-force approach, applying the least amount of force necessary to control a situation. Deadly force should only be used when all lower levels of force have failed or are not an option.

Presence and Verbal Commands – Establishing authority and giving clear instructions.
Soft Techniques – Using physical positioning or restraining holds (if authorized).
Non-Lethal Force – Using tools like batons, pepper spray, or tasers (where permitted).
Deadly Force – Only if an imminent threat to life exists.

Legal and Employer Consequences of Misusing Deadly Force

Criminal charges, including manslaughter, assault, or murder.
Civil lawsuits for wrongful death or excessive force claims.
Loss of security license and firearm permit.
Termination of employment and possible blacklisting from the industry.
Emotional and psychological consequences of using deadly force unnecessarily.

Required Review and Consultation

All security officers must review:

Their employer’s policies regarding deadly force.
State and federal laws applicable to their jurisdiction.
Guidance from a licensed firearms instructor to ensure compliance.
Legal counsel or expert training programs if clarification is needed.

Final Reminder

The use of deadly force must be lawful, necessary, and proportionate to the threat. If an officer cannot justify the use of deadly force, they should not engage. Security officers must be able to clearly explain their decision-making process if questioned by law enforcement, attorneys, or their employer.