[Usagi_yo]

I wonder if verbal threats constitute a reason for lethal force?

I’m sure the conversation didnt’ go like this:
Dunn: Please turn down your stereo.
Russel: No sir!

Cops are the only ones alowed to shoot menacing unarmed people and restrained dogs.

[PowderMonkey]

"I wonder if verbal threats constitute a reason for lethal force?"

Regardless of circumstances, it all boils down to 1). Prosecutorial discretion; 2). Being able to convince a jury. As the Martin/Zimmerman case demonstrates. Nothing is certain after you pull the trigger. Well, actually, the only certainty is needing an attorney.