Which statement about the Fleeing-Felon Rule is accurate?

• A. It authorizes use of force when a suspect who has fled during an arrest is believed to be a felon and poses a threat.
• B. It prohibits any force until the suspect is cornered
• C. It requires a warrant before any use of force
• D. It applies only to non-violent crimes

Answer: (A)

Understanding the Fleeing-Felon Rule means recognizing when police may use force to stop a fleeing arrestee who is believed to be a felon and poses a threat. The correct statement captures that if a suspect has fled during an arrest and is believed to be a felon who threatens others, force is authorized to prevent escape. This reflects the idea that danger and the potential for harm justify action to stop the escape, rather than waiting for the person to be cornered. It isn’t about requiring a warrant before any force, nor is it limited to non-violent crimes. In practice, modern application also emphasizes that any force used must be reasonable and proportionate to the threat.