What key factor does Graham vs. Connor establish for use of force?

Graham vs. Connor is a pivotal Supreme Court case that helped define the standards for evaluating the use of force by law enforcement officers. The key factor established in this case is the severity of the crime committed. In determining whether an officer's use of force was reasonable, the court emphasized that the government's interest in using force must be balanced against the nature of the threat posed by the suspect.

The ruling recognized that the more severe the crime or the immediate threat to officer or public safety, the more justification there is for a higher level of force. This means that if an officer is responding to a violent crime, the justification for the use of force can be greater compared to a situation involving non-threatening behavior or a minor crime.

Overall, the Graham vs. Connor case signifies the importance of context in assessing use of force, focusing particularly on the seriousness of the offense being addressed and the corresponding risk it presents to officers and civilians.