The common-law doctrine allowing police officers to use deadly force to apprehend any fleeing felon who would otherwise escape has been modified over the years by State laws. In addition, the United States Supreme Court has ruled that shootings of any unarmed, nonviolent fleeing felony suspect violates the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution. Moreover, almost all major urban police agencies have enacted administrative policies that are more restrictive than State law. Furthermore, it is now easier for citizens to file lawsuits and collect civil damages as a result of police actions. Research has also examined the nature and frequency of police firearms use and the reasons why blacks are overrepresented among victims of police shootings. The available evidence indicates that the criminal law is not an effective means for reducing the number of police shootings. However, the possibility of lawsuits and restrictive departmental policies are both effective. A national reporting system would aid research and enable administrators and citizens to determine how their police departments are doing compared to others. 60 references.