What does the greater danger exception refer to?

The greater danger exception refers to a principle in law enforcement that acknowledges situations where the risk of harm to an innocent person may be outweighed by the necessity to stop an immediate threat, such as a potential act of violence or serious crime. This concept allows officers to take urgent actions that may otherwise not align with standard protocols, thereby prioritizing the protection of the public over strict adherence to procedures when immediate dangers are present.

In certain circumstances, law enforcement may need to act swiftly to mitigate harm, especially when there is a real and imminent threat to individuals or the community at large. This perspective supports the idea that protecting lives can sometimes require deviation from normal rules or protocols in the interest of public safety.