Police Brutality In Philadelphia
Victims of police misconduct find themselves in difficult situations. Not only do they feel physically and emotionally violated, but they also find that most of their complaints fall on deaf ears. Their stories are often brushed off or they are made to feel that they are at fault because they were in such close proximity with police.
Sadly many victims of police brutality do not feel comfortable enough to get others involved. We place a lot of trust in our law enforcement, and the betrayal of that trust should not go un-pursued. The personal injury lawyers at The Law Offices of Greg Prosmushkin have the expertise to help the innocent victims of police brutality pursue the justice they deserve.
Most police officers are dedicated public servants. They understand their role: to serve and protect. They keep us safe. When someone threatens our well-being or fails to adhere to the laws which guide us all, they take the necessary actions to appropriately resolve the matter. But as with any group, not all police officers are good people. Some are corrupt. Some abuse their power to the detriment of society.
When police willfully cross the line and violate the rights of those they are supposed to protect, they are engaging in Police Misconduct. Though Police Brutality has certainly gotten the bulk of the media’s attention in recent years, it is only one of many forms of Police Misconduct – all of which are serious! If you have been the victim of Police Misconduct, you need appropriate representation. Call The Law Offices of Greg Prosmushkin, P.C. today to schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys.
Police Misconduct
As discussed above, police conduct may take many forms, including:
- Police brutality (excessive force)
- Racial profiling
- Intimidation
- Off-duty misconduct
- Falsifying evidence
- False arrest
- False imprisonment
- Sexual misconduct
While this is not an exhaustive list, it should provide you a strong foundation regarding the many forms that Police Misconduct may take. It is important to understand that it is not your responsibility to determine how your rights have been violated. Leave that to the lawyers.
What is important is that you take appropriate action if you feel that the police have engaged in some form of Police Misconduct. If you are of the sincere impression that the police have acted inappropriately, it is quite possible that such is the case. Do not hesitate. Call counsel immediately and begin discussing your options.
How Can I Tell If Police Have Engaged in Misconduct?
This is not an easy question to answer, because most situations are a matter of degree rather than blatant disregard for the law, contrary to sensationalized media representations. Some examples follow:
- Excessive force often occurs when some degree of force is necessary, but the officers overreact by either using their firearm or tasing repeatedly. The teenager in Chicago who was shot 16 times clearly did not need to be shot sixteen times. Usually, it isn’t this clear, and requires both investigation and a jury to make a determination.
- A false arrest occurs when the police make an arrest absent “probable cause.” It is possible that the individual arrested may have been involved, but the officers need an appropriate basis by which to make the arrest, otherwise, it is in violation of one’s rights.
- A false arrest requires simply unlawful bodily restraint. This means you do not actually have to be imprisoned. The officer may just restrain your movement. This is reasonable in many situations. However, it rises to the level of misconduct when they will not allow you to leave a scene without justification or hold you for an unreasonable period.
- Racial profiling is a real issue in this country. However, not every encounter between minorities and police are instance of profiling. Usually, officers make a legitimate stop and/or arrest. But when officers engage in systemic behavior targeting minorities, then this is a serious issue and one which must be addressed.
Police Misconduct cannot be tolerated in a just society. We must curtail improper behavior and show the police that they are not above the law. If you have been the victim of officer misconduct, The Law Offices of Greg Prosmushkin, P.C. can help get you the justice you deserve. Call Today For a Free Consultation. You may also email us, and we will respond promptly.