TCOLE Basic Peace Officer Course (BPOC) Practice Exam 2026 - Free Peace Officer Practice Questions and Study Guide

The justification for using deadly force according to the Penal Code is rooted in the principle of self-defense, which often includes the concept of retreat. In a situation where there is no possibility of retreating, a person may reasonably perceive that they are in immediate danger and that their life is at risk. This condition permits the use of deadly force as a necessary means to protect oneself from that imminent threat.

The law recognizes that retreating from a threat is often a safer option, but in circumstances where escape is not feasible, the person has a right to defend themselves by employing deadly force to prevent serious injury or death. Therefore, the absence of a retreat option is a critical aspect of determining when the use of deadly force can be justified.

Understanding these nuances is crucial for peace officers when assessing situations that may involve the use of force, as they must evaluate whether the threatened individual had a viable option to retreat and if the use of deadly force was indeed warranted under the specific circumstances they faced.