Police Brutality

A young man’s family reports that he was brutally beaten by police during a shop-lifting arrest; police are photographed smearing pepper spray in the eyes of non-violent protestors—these are but tw

How Much Force Officers Can Use During Arrest

Police officers are generally allowed to use  reasonable  force to take a person into custody. For example, if a suspect resists by momentarily attempting to run away or giving a token push, a police officer wouldn’t be justified in using extreme force. If officers use unnecessary force, they can be subject to serious repercussions, including criminal prosecution and civil liability (in the form of a lawsuit by the victim).

Resisting Arrest When Police Use Excessive Force

It’s extremely rare that someone being placed under arrest has the right to forcefully resist.

Suing the Police for Excessive Force

Excessive force by the police during an arrest violates the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Taser Lawsuits Against the Police

Police officers are, of course, allowed to use reasonable force when arresting someone. But there are limits to how much force they can use.

What Is a "Section 1983" Lawsuit Against the Police?

The Civil Rights Act of 1871 allows people to sue for certain kinds of civil rights violations, including excessive police force.

Excessive Police Force and the Provocation Rule

In County of Los Angeles v. Mendez, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected the provocation rule, which some courts had used in police force cases.

Can police officers be prosecuted for excessive force?

Yes, indeed. Though prosecution isn’t necessarily commonplace, police officers can be held criminally liable for use of unreasonable force under both state and federal law.

How much force can the police use in high-speed car chases?

The Fourth Amendment prohibits unreasonable searches and seizures.