Forcible felony
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A forcible felony, in the criminal law of various US states, is a felony that is subject to special penalties because it involves the use or threat of physical force. Forcible felonies are defined by statute. Typical examples of forcible felonies include murder, arson, rape, kidnapping, and armed robbery.[1]
Some states have adopted a "forcible felony rule", under which police are only authorized to use deadly force to apprehend people suspected of forcible felonies.[1] Prior to the Supreme Court's 1985 decision in Tennessee v. Garner, this was a minority position, and many states authorized deadly force to apprehend any fleeing felon.[2]
Many jurisdictions came to adopt the forcible felony rule for vehicular pursuits as well.[3]
Self-defense
Florida
Florida defines forcible felonies to include treason and burglary as well as violent felonies.[8] Forcible felonies are subject to mandatory minimum sentences under the state's 10-20-Life law.[9]
