Which of the following is NOT a stated justification for deadly force?

• A. Self Protection
• B. To compel compliance with an order the CG has authority to issue
• C. To prevent a federal crime
• D. To deter non-compliant individuals from harboring contraband

Answer: (D)

Deadly force is justified only when there is an imminent threat to life or serious bodily harm, or when necessary to stop an imminent violent act in which the use of force is proportionate to the threat. Self-protection fits because you’re protecting yourself from an immediate danger. Compelling compliance with a lawful order fits when the subject’s actions create an imminent risk and you have authority to issue that order, so using force can be necessary to prevent harm. Preventing a federal crime fits when there’s an imminent risk or ongoing violent act that must be stopped to protect life or safety.

Deterrence, such as trying to deter non-compliant individuals from harboring contraband, does not by itself involve an immediate threat or ongoing criminal action and therefore does not meet the criteria for a justified use of deadly force. Deterrence is about discouraging future behavior, not addressing an imminent danger in the moment.