Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to modify the conditions under which a peace officer in Minnesota is allowed to use deadly force. It aims to ensure that such force is only used when absolutely necessary to protect individuals from death or great bodily harm.

Main Provisions

• The bill amends the existing law to specify that deadly force is justified only if an objectively reasonable officer believes it is necessary based on the circumstances at the time, without hindsight.
• Deadly force may be used to:
  1. Protect the officer or another person from death or serious injury, provided the threat is specific and immediate and can’t be mitigated without deadly force.
  2. Capture or prevent the escape of a person suspected of committing a felony, who is believed to pose a significant threat to others if not quickly apprehended.
• The bill stipulates that deadly force should not be used against individuals posing a danger only to themselves unless their actions meet the criteria of posing a threat to the officer or others.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• This bill tightens the guidelines for when deadly force may be used, emphasizing the need for a current and clear threat that cannot be managed without such extreme measures.
• It clarifies that the threat must be immediate and specific, advocating for the use of deadly force as a last resort.

Relevant Terms

• Deadly Force
• Peace Officer
• Objectively Reasonable Officer
• Great Bodily Harm
• Felony
• Immediate Threat
• Capture/Prevent Escape