What is the objective of using deadly force according to law enforcement guidelines?

The objective of using deadly force within law enforcement guidelines primarily revolves around the need to incapacitate a threat that poses an immediate danger to the officer or others. Deadly force is not about punishment, as law enforcement operates under the principle of upholding the law rather than enacting retribution. It also does not serve the purpose of intimidation, since threats or coercion are generally viewed as inappropriate and unprofessional practices in law enforcement. Ensuring compliance is also not the primary aim; rather, using deadly force is a last resort action taken only when there is a clear and present danger to life that cannot be resolved by other means.

In essence, the use of deadly force must be justified by the necessity to protect lives. When officers are faced with imminent threats, the objective shifts to neutralizing that threat to prevent potential harm, thus making incapacitation the key focus.