In what situation can a guard be held liable for excessive force?

A guard can be held liable for excessive force if the force exceeded what is considered reasonable necessity in a given situation. The concept of reasonable necessity relates to the idea that the level of force applied must be appropriate and proportional to the threat faced. If a guard uses more force than what is justified to protect themselves or others, or to restrain a suspect, they can face legal consequences for that action.

In determining excessive force, factors such as the severity of the threat, the nature of the crime, and the circumstances at the time of the incident are taken into consideration. If it is established that the guard's response was not aligned with these factors and hence unreasonable, liability could be imposed.

Other situations mentioned, such as whether the force was witnessed or related to not being deputized, do not directly establish liability for excessive force. Moreover, mistaken identity might introduce complications regarding the justification for the use of force, but it does not inherently relate to whether the force itself was unreasonable according to established legal standards. Thus, the standard of reasonable necessity remains central to determining liability for excessive force by a guard.