Final answer:
Deadly force is legally justifiable solely if an officer's personal safety or the safety of others is at risk, which corresponds to option B. The recent and prominent cases involving police use of force, particularly against African Americans, have brought attention to the necessity for lawful and non-discriminatory practices by law enforcement.
Step-by-step explanation:
Deadly force can be used only if the officer's personal safety or the safety of others is in jeopardy. This aligns with option B. The use of deadly force in the face of a misdemeanor or simply resisting arrest is not justified according to legal standards, including those set forth in court cases such as Terry v. Ohio.
The use of deadly force has been a subject of intense scrutiny, especially considering recent events involving police officers and African American individuals. The deaths of Michael Brown, Eric Garner, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd have sparked national conversations about policing practices and the disparate treatment of racial minorities. The killing of unarmed suspects, such as these, raises concerns about racial disparities in the application of law enforcement powers. The Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees due process of law before deprivation of life, liberty, or property, which is central to the enforcement policies.
Factors like probable cause, witnessed crimes, and public safety are considered before law enforcement officials decide to use deadly force. The controversy arising from racially charged incidents with police officers shows the complexity and sensitivity of such decisions, with the overarching need to pursue equal justice and avoid unwarranted use of force. Legal standards and societal expectations demand careful assessment of situations before deciding to use deadly force.