What does the greater danger exception entail?

The greater danger exception refers to a principle in law enforcement that allows officers to take necessary actions, including the use of lethal force, under specific circumstances where the consequences of inaction would result in greater harm than the action taken. This principle emphasizes a critical assessment of the situation, where the potential dangers posed by a suspect or an imminent threat must be weighed against the severity of the response, which could include the use of lethal force.

In essence, if a law enforcement officer determines that not intervening would lead to significant and immediate danger to innocent lives or public safety, the greater danger exception permits them to act in a way that appropriately mitigates that risk, even if the action taken is severe. This decision-making process involves evaluating the potential outcomes and ensuring that the response is justified given the context of the situation.

Other options present different scenarios or limitations that do not accurately reflect the essence of the greater danger exception. The principle is rooted in the need for officers to assess situations dynamically, balancing the safety of the public against the actions they might need to take.