Relates to justifying the use of force by police officers and peace officers and to the excessive use of police force

This New York State bill (S 6111) revises legal standards for when police and peace officers may use force during arrests or to prevent escapes. It clarifies that officers may only use force (including deadly force) when reasonably necessary, requiring consideration of less-lethal alternatives and de-escalation tactics before resorting to physical force. The bill also adds new offenses for "excessive use of force" (Sections 120.75-120.77) and specifies that force is unjustified if applied to someone incapable of resisting or if the officer created unnecessary risk. The law directly affects all law enforcement officers in New York and individuals interacting with them during law enforcement encounters.