Police violence and brutality have made headlines throughout the United States in recent years. Unfortunately, these acts are largely unpunished and often swept under the rug. With so many victims injured by the use of excessive force, there has been more civilian uproar over police tactics in the last year than ever before. If you or someone you know has been a victim of excessive force, an experienced police brutality lawyer can help you.
Types of police brutality.
There are five types of brutality:
Excess force: This is often subjective depending on the situation. However, a police officer is not permitted to exert more force than physically necessary to complete his or her duties. Most importantly, it is illegal for police officers to hurt someone who is unarmed, who is not threatening the lives of anyone, and who is following instructions.
False imprisonment or arrest: This means the police officer unlawfully took someone into their custody without a probable cause (no crime was committed) or without a warrant. All arrests must be justified by the law.
Intentional and malicious prosecution: This is an illegitimate claim against someone with intent to embarrass him or her, cause emotional distress or financial burden.
Unreasonable search and seizure: This happens when a police officer enters the home of a perceived suspect without the appropriate warrant, or when a strip search is conducted on someone who is not officially in police custody.
Failure to abide by the rights granted to a pre-trial detainee: Law enforcement officers are required to care for everyone in their custody. This means they must provide food, water, shelter, and physical safety. If any of these components are omitted or neglected, the person has the right to sue the police.If any of the above has happened to you or someone you love, you have the right to bring a civil lawsuit against the offending officer and police department. Let us help you potentially recover compensation for emotional and physical damages, pain and suffering, and lost wages.
Contact an NYC Police Brutality Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been a victim of police brutality in NYC, false arrest, sexual harassment, or police discrimination, contact us to ensure your legal rights are protected and that you are compensated for injuries both mental and physical. Our police brutality lawyers, harassment lawyers, discrimination attorneys have the expertise and years of experience needed to help you determine your legal options and the most effective course of action.
