When police officers use more force than necessary, people can get seriously hurt. But when does force cross the line into police brutality? If you or someone you love has been harmed by excessive force, you may have legal options. At Stritmatter Kessler Koehler Moore, we stand up for victims of police misconduct in Seattle, WA.
What Is Excessive Force?
Police officers have a tough job. Sometimes, they must use force to make arrests or stop dangerous situations. But the law says that force must be reasonable—meaning it should match the situation. If an officer goes too far, using more force than needed, that’s called excessive force. Some examples of this may include:
- Hitting or kicking a suspect who is already restrained
- Using a Taser or pepper spray when there is no immediate threat
- Choking someone until they can’t breathe
- Using a gun when the suspect is unarmed and not acting aggressively
The key question in these cases is whether the force was reasonable. If not, the officer’s actions may be classified as police brutality, which violates a person’s civil rights.
How Excessive Force Harms Victims
Being on the receiving end of excessive force can cause more than just physical injuries. Victims often suffer broken bones, head trauma, nerve damage, or long-term disabilities. The physical pain and suffering of these harmful situations also cause many people to struggle emotionally.
For families, the effects can be devastating. A loved one may be left unable to work due to their injuries. They may face towering medical expenses and, in severe cases, may have life-altering injuries. Excessive force can also lead to wrongful death, leaving families grieving an unimaginable loss. Washington law specifically addresses the use of deadly force by an officer.
When Does Excessive Force Become Police Brutality?
Not every use of force by an officer is illegal. The law gives police some room to act when making arrests or handling dangerous situations. But when force is completely unnecessary or way beyond what was needed, it crosses the line into police brutality.
Courts often look at:
- The Threat Level – Was the person truly a danger, or was the officer overreacting?
- The Suspect’s Actions – Did the person resist or cooperate?
- Alternative Options – Could the officer have handled the situation differently?
For example, imagine someone is pulled over for a minor traffic violation. If they calmly follow instructions but an officer slams them to the ground, that’s likely excessive force. But if a person reaches for a weapon and an officer takes action to stop them, the force may be considered reasonable.
Why Some Officers Use Excessive Force
Most police officers follow the law, but some take things too far. Excessive force can happen for several reasons. Some officers lack proper training and don’t know how to handle tense situations without turning to violence. Others let personal bias affect how they treat people.
There are also officers who abuse their power, believing they won’t face consequences. When police departments fail to discipline misconduct, it only makes the problem worse. No matter the reason, using excessive force is never okay. Officers should be held responsible for their actions, just like everyone else.
What Can Victims Do?
If you or a loved one has been harmed by excessive force, you don’t have to suffer in silence. You may have the right to file a civil rights lawsuit against the police officer or police department. This could help you recover money for medical costs and any other losses you face.
To build a strong case, get medical care right away. Your health is important, and medical records can serve as evidence. Gather photos, videos, and witness statements. Write down details like the officer’s badge number and location. Most importantly, speak with a lawyer who can guide you through the legal process.
How Stritmatter Kessler Koehler Moore Can Help
At Stritmatter Kessler Koehler Moore, we fight for victims of police brutality in Seattle, WA. Our team understands the legal system and how to hold officers accountable. If you’ve been harmed by excessive force, we want to help. Contact our team now for a consultation to determine the best legal options available to help you get justice.
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