South Dakota § 22-16-32 - Justifiable homicide-Law enforcement officers or at command of officer--Overcoming resistance--Capturing or arresting fleeing felons.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 22-16-32 — Justifiable homicide-Law enforcement officers or at command of officer--Overcoming resistance--Capturing or arresting fleeing felons., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 22-16-32. Justifiable homicide-Law enforcement officers or at command of officer--Overcoming resistance--Capturing or arresting fleeing felons.
Homicide is justifiable if committed by a law enforcement officer or by any person acting by command of a law enforcement officer in the aid and assistance of that officer:
(1) If necessarily committed in overcoming actual resistance to the execution of some legal process, or to the discharge of any other legal duty; or
(2) If necessarily committed in retaking felons who have been rescued or who have escaped; or
(3) If necessarily committed in arresting felons fleeing from justice.
Source: SDC 1939, § 13.2004; SL 1976, ch 158, § 16-9; SL 1977, ch 189, § 43; SL 2005, ch 120, § 163.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 22-16-32
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 22-16-32 cover?
Section 22-16-32 ("Justifiable homicide-Law enforcement officers or at command of officer--Overcoming resistance--Capturing or arresting fleeing felons.") is part of the South Dakota Codified Laws, the codified statutory law of South Dakota. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite South Dakota § 22-16-32?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 22-16-32" (South Dakota). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of South Dakota law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the South Dakota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed South Dakota attorney.
How does South Dakota § 22-16-32 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in South Dakota can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in South Dakota.