Which principle is fundamental in determining police use of force?

The principle that is fundamental in determining police use of force is proportionality to the threat level. This concept emphasizes that the degree of force applied by law enforcement should be appropriate and reasonable in relation to the threat posed by a situation. When officers assess a situation, they must evaluate the behavior and actions of individuals involved, as well as the perceived threat to their safety and the safety of others.

If a suspect poses a significant threat—such as being armed or exhibiting violent behavior—officers may justifiably use more forceful measures to neutralize that threat. Conversely, if the threat is minimal or non-existent, the response should be much less aggressive. This principle aims to ensure that law enforcement actions are measured and justified, thereby promoting accountability and reducing instances of excessive force.

In contrast, other options such as random selection criteria and subjectivity based on officer training do not provide a standardized, justifiable basis for the use of force. Consistency in procedural justice, while important for overall fair treatment within the legal system, does not specifically address the dynamics of force application in various scenarios, which is why proportionality remains the key principle.