31-223. Use of force by correctional officers A correctional officer as defined in section 41-1661 may use all reasonable and necessary means including deadly force to prevent the attempt of a prisoner sentenced to the custody of the state department of corrections to: 1. Escape from custody or from a correctional facility. 2. Take another person as a hostage. 3. Cause serious bodily harm to another person.
Arizona Legal Code
§ 31.223
Source: https://www.azleg.gov/ars/31/00223.htm· Version 2026