What does the Deadly Force Triangle consist of?

The Deadly Force Triangle is a crucial concept in law enforcement and use-of-force training, focusing on the essential factors that must be present to justify the use of deadly force. The correct components of this triangle—Ability, Opportunity, and Jeopardy—provide a framework for officers to assess a situation involving a potential threat.

Ability refers to the suspect's capability to inflict serious bodily harm or death to others. This factor considers whether the individual possesses the means, such as a weapon or physical strength, to carry out such actions.

Opportunity addresses whether the suspect is in a position to use that ability against another person. This means the proximity between the potential threat and the intended target plays a critical role in evaluating the immediacy of the danger.

Jeopardy signifies the threat posed to the officer or others. It examines the overall circumstances and whether the situation indeed places someone's life at risk.

Understanding these three elements allows law enforcement officers to make informed decisions when faced with high-stakes scenarios, ensuring their responses are justifiable and aligned with their training and legal standards surrounding the use of deadly force.