What are the four elements for deadly force?

• A. Proportionality, necessity, reasonableness, and timeliness
• B. Intent, means, ability, and opportunity
• C. Duty, danger, distance, duration
• D. Presence, weapon, target, and environment

Answer: (B)

Deadly-force justification hinges on four elements: intent to cause death or serious harm, the means to commit the act, the ability of the individual to inflict such harm, and the opportunity to do so now. These factors are evaluated from the officer’s reasonable belief in the moment. If the subject shows clear intent and has both the means and the ability to apply lethal force, and they have the immediate opportunity to act, the use of deadly force can be justified to prevent an imminent threat. If any one of these elements is missing—no immediate ability, no immediate opportunity, or no intent—the threat isn’t considered imminent, and deadly force would not be justified. This framework is why the correct choice lists intent, means, ability, and opportunity.