When you’re interacting with law enforcement in New York, police might abuse their power and exceed their limits of authority. You may feel like your rights have been deprived, which is known as police misconduct. It’s important to understand when police officers cross the boundaries of the law so that they can be held accountable.
Examples of police misconduct
There are a few common examples of police misconduct to be aware of, which include false arrest, unlawful detention and racial profiling. Police should not stop you without reason, especially if you didn’t show any signs that you were committing a crime. Many people are falsely arrested and are immediately taken into custody. There are also instances where law enforcement will violate a person’s civil rights by holding them in detention for longer than necessary before they’re released.
Excessive force during an arrest is another example of police misconduct and can lead to physical injuries or trauma, including deadly force. An individual might be injured by police even if they’re not considered to be a threat to the police. This violates the individual’s rights and oversteps their protection under the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
Who can you contact for legal assistance?
If you believe you’ve been a victim of police misconduct or have had an unsettling interaction with law enforcement, reach out to a legal professional. An attorney may inform you of your rights and offer their services to help you seek the compensation you deserve and hold the police accountable for their actions. Hiring an attorney in the jurisdiction where the offense occurred may allow you to pursue legal action and file a civil rights claim.
