An excessive force claim requires an inmate to demonstrate which of the following under the 8th amendment?

In the context of excessive force claims under the 8th Amendment, it is essential for an inmate to demonstrate that the force used by correctional staff was not applied in good faith. This standard recognizes that correctional officers are permitted to use a degree of force in the performance of their duties, but it must be justified. If the force is applied with malicious intent or without a legitimate penological justification, it is deemed excessive.

The assessment of whether the application of force was done in good faith involves examining the officer's intent and the circumstances surrounding the use of force. The intent is crucial; if the force was carried out with the purpose of causing harm or as a form of punishment, rather than to maintain order or ensure safety, it likely crosses into the territory of excessive force. In essence, the demonstration that force was not applied in good faith is central to establishing a violation of an inmate’s rights under the 8th Amendment.