The abuse of the authority to use deadly force in the discharge of their duties is a serious problem as it typically erodes the trust the public has in their law enforcement officers. The problems caused when police officers abuse their authority are often exacerbated by the fact that very, very few officers are ever indicted let alone prosecuted or convicted for the crimes they commit, even when there is very clear and damning evidence against them. In dictatorial, corrupt, or weak states, police officers may be forced to carry out use of force acts for their own safety or safety of civilians or colleagues while exercising diligence.