What is the first prong of Tennessee V. Garner concerning the use of deadly force?

In the context of Tennessee v. Garner, the first prong concerning the use of deadly force asserts that an officer must have probable cause to believe that a violent felony has been committed. This landmark case established important guidelines regarding the appropriateness of using deadly force by law enforcement. The decision emphasizes the necessity for officers to assess the situation critically and ensure that their actions align with legal standards for the use of deadly force.

In this case, the Court ruled that officers can only lawfully use deadly force against a fleeing suspect if they have probable cause to believe that the suspect poses a significant threat of death or serious physical injury to the officer or others. Thus, establishing that a violent felony has taken place is crucial as it justifies the urgency and the potential threat involved.

This reasoning helps ensure that officers do not resort to deadly force without adequate justification, aiming to balance law enforcement duties with individuals' rights to life and due process. The focus on violent felonies addresses the underlying motive for the use of such force in the first place, grounding the officer's actions in the need to protect lives and maintain public safety.