What is the key consideration in evaluating police action in Graham v. Connor?

In the context of Graham v. Connor, the key consideration in evaluating police action is based on the "objective reasonableness" standard, which emphasizes the circumstances surrounding the use of force. This case established that the evaluation must focus on whether the officers’ actions were reasonable under the circumstances they faced at the moment, with an emphasis on the severity of the crime involved and whether the suspect poses an immediate threat to officer or public safety.

Thus, understanding the type of criminal activity involved is crucial, as it provides a context for the officers’ decision-making process. Factors such as whether the suspect was engaged in a violent crime, was fleeing, or posed any threat contribute significantly to how the legality and appropriateness of the police action are judged. Elements like the cost to the state, the suspect’s training, or the police department's reputation are not central to this analysis and do not influence the assessment of reasonableness as outlined by the Supreme Court in this landmark ruling.