You have the right to be free from excessive force. In the law, excessive force is generally defined as more force than is reasonably necessary under the circumstances or conditions that are confronting the officer. Thus, force can be excessive in a wide variety of situations. Examples of some situations are as follows:

• Handcuffs that are substantially too tight
• Striking an arrestee while he/she is handcuffed
• Striking an arrestee when not handcuffed, when the arrestee is not resisting the officer
• Using a taser when not reasonably necessary to subdue a person
• Using a baton or flashlight to strike a person when not necessary to do so
• The use of deadly force, including using a gun, is only appropriate in extreme situations
• Closing a door on an arrestee to cause injury or pain

There are many other situations that can also be excessive. If you feel that you have been subject to excessive force, contact Ed Fox & Associates.