Supreme Court Expands Excessive Force Standard in Policing: Totality of Circumstances Must Be Considered

In a landmark unanimous decision issued on May 15, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court redefines the legal framework for evaluating police use of force, ruling that courts must assess the “totality of the circumstances” rather than focusing solely on the moment an officer perceives a threat. The ruling stems from the case Barnes v. Felix, which involves the 2016 fatal shooting of Ashtian Barnes during a traffic stop in Houston, Texas.

Officer Roberto Felix of Harris County Constable Precinct 5 pulled over 24-year-old Barnes for suspected unpaid tolls. During the stop, Barnes attempted to flee. . .