Can force be used during a Terry stop?

During a Terry stop, the application of force must be guided by the principle of objective reasonableness. This means that an officer can utilize reasonable force when the circumstances justify it, such as when the officer perceives an immediate threat to their safety or to the safety of others. The standard of objective reasonableness refers to what a reasonable officer would perceive in similar circumstances, considering factors such as the behavior of the suspect, the context of the stop, and any potential risks involved.

This framework allows officers to make split-second decisions regarding the use of force based on the totality of the circumstances. In a Terry stop, if an officer has a justifiable reason to believe that force is necessary to safely detain a suspect who may be dangerous, then using reasonable force would be permissible. This approach balances the need for effective policing with the rights of individuals, ensuring that the application of force is justified and proportionate to the situation at hand.