What is the term for force used by an officer with the intent of causing death or serious bodily injury?

The term used to describe the force employed by an officer with the intent to cause death or serious bodily injury is known as "Deadly Force." This designation is significant within law enforcement and legal contexts, as it denotes the highest level of force that can be used in a situation where an officer perceives a grave threat to their life or the lives of others.

Understanding this terminology is crucial because it is often governed by specific policies and legal standards regarding when and how it can be applied. For example, officers are typically required to justify the use of deadly force by demonstrating an imminent threat that necessitates such a response. The distinction of "deadly" highlights the potential consequences of this level of force, both for the officer and the individuals involved, which are reasons such actions are heavily scrutinized and regulated by law.

The other terms in the question, while related to concepts of force in law enforcement, do not encapsulate the specific intent behind actions that could result in death or serious harm. This clarity in language is essential for both law enforcement training and legal accountability.