What standard did Graham v. Connor establish regarding the use of force by police?

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Prepare for the Louisiana Peace Officer Standards And Training Exam. Boost your readiness with curated flashcards and multiple-choice questions that offer hints and insights. Get exam-ready!

The standard established by Graham v. Connor regarding the use of force by police emphasizes that the force used must be reasonable, not excessive. This landmark case set the precedent for evaluating police use of force based on the perspective of a reasonable officer on the scene, considering the specific circumstances and potential threats faced at the time of the incident.

This reasonable standard is particularly important because it recognizes that officers often need to make rapid decisions in unpredictable and potentially dangerous situations. Therefore, it emphasizes a balance where the actions taken by law enforcement are permissible as long as they are appropriate to the level of threat perceived, ensuring that excessive force is not tolerated and that officers are held accountable for their decisions in the context of their duties.

The other options do not accurately reflect the core principle established in Graham v. Connor. For instance, judging from a hindsight perspective does not account for the immediate and dynamic nature of policing in real time; aligning with public opinion may not reflect the legal standards necessary to ensure officer safety and effective policing; and requiring approval from a supervisor could undermine the officer's authority and judgment in urgent situations.