What is one consequence of excessive force used on inmates according to legal standards?

Using excessive force on inmates can lead to a violation of the Eighth Amendment rights, which prohibits cruel and unusual punishment. This amendment is part of the U.S. Constitution and ensures that individuals are treated humanely while incarcerated. When correctional officers use excessive force, it is not only a breach of ethical standards but also a legal one. Such actions can expose the correctional department to lawsuits, civil rights violations, and increased scrutiny from oversight bodies and the public.

Inmate cooperation is typically not improved by the use of excessive force. In fact, it can lead to fear and resentment among the inmate population, making compliance less likely. Similarly, while having administrative control is important within correctional settings, excessive force undermines authority rather than strengthens it, leading to distrust and potential uprisings among inmates. Finally, positive correctional outcomes are generally associated with rehabilitation and ethical treatment of inmates, which are compromised by the use of excessive force. Thus, the emphasis on humane treatment reflects both legal standards and best practices within the correctional system.