What are the elements of the Deadly Force Triangle?

The elements of the Deadly Force Triangle are Opportunity, Intent, and Capability, which identify the critical factors that must be present for the use of deadly force to be justified.

Opportunity refers to the ability of a potential threat to inflict harm or attack, indicating that the threat is in a position to act. Intent represents the clear motivation or purpose behind the threat's actions; it is essential to assess whether the individual is actively seeking to cause harm. Capability encompasses the means or resources available to the threat to carry out the intended harm, such as possessing a weapon or physical strength.

These three elements must coalesce to create a legitimate justification for utilizing deadly force, emphasizing that without the presence of all three, the situation may not warrant such an extreme response. This knowledge is crucial for officers and security personnel to ensure that they assess threats accurately and act within the bounds of their authority while prioritizing safety and legal standards.