According to the rules, when may deadly force be used to defend others if retreat is not possible?

• A. Deadly force may be used if the LEO or third party cannot safely retreat
• B. Deadly force may be used if the third party asks for it
• C. Deadly force may never be used to defend others
• D. Deadly force is always required to defend others

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that using deadly force to defend others is only justified when there is an imminent threat and there’s no safe way to escape the danger. If the officer or bystander being defended cannot retreat to safety, they may use deadly force to stop the threat, but only to the extent needed to prevent death or serious bodily harm and in a manner proportional to the danger.

So the best choice reflects that condition: deadly force may be used if the LEO or third party cannot safely retreat. It isn’t about someone asking for it, and it isn’t a blanket rule that applies in every situation—deadly force is reserved for imminent, serious harm when there’s no safe alternative.