Criminal Investigations in Riverdale

Most interactions with law enforcement are not pleasant. Whether you are pulled over by cops in your car, questioned in public or at your home, or even detained and arrested, your experience can be stressful and even traumatizing. At whichever stage you or a loved one may find yourself in a criminal investigation, having an experienced criminal defense attorney with knowledge of the criminal process by your side is essential.

Often, you may find yourself involved with the busyness of life, and it is easy to forget your rights, especially in those critical moments when you are first confronted by law enforcement. Police are notorious for attempting to intimidate you into allowing them to take actions that violate your rights. Luckily, the US Constitution and other criminal procedure laws can provide you with substantial protection in those instances. It is very important that you have a lawyer in your corner with extensive experience in criminal investigations in Riverdale.

If You Are Stopped by Police

Remember, you have the right to remain silent when police stop you. Exercising this right is crucial because prosecutors can use your words against you in court if you get arrested. If police detain and arrest you, state clearly that you are remaining silent and that you want a lawyer immediately.

Police may attempt to search you, but you are not required to consent to a search of your person or belongings. Officers may conduct a pat-down if they believe you have a weapon that could harm them. However, police often exceed this legal limit. Clearly state your objection to any search beyond a pat-down to ensure it is on record. As an experienced lawyer handling criminal stops in Riverdale, I can challenge unlawful searches and protect your rights in court.

If You See Police Brutality

Let’s say you walk out of your house to see that the police have stopped someone in your neighborhood. If you see police using excessive or brutal force against a friend or another community member, document it the best you can, as safely as you can. You have the right to observe and even record the police activities, as long as you are not meddling with their illegal investigative acts.

Police may try to intimidate you into stopping recording, deleting footage, or even arresting you for recording. However, the First Amendment protects your right to record police activity, and any arrest for doing so is unlawful. If arrested, remain silent and document what was taken or deleted. Record badge numbers and patrol car numbers as accurately as possible, and contact an attorney experienced in unlawful detainment in Riverdale immediately.

Call a Riverdale Lawyer for Assistance With Criminal Investigations and Your Case

Most interactions with the police are not enjoyable. Whether you, your friend, or a known community member has gone through criminal investigative activities with the police, there are substantial rights that protect you. Sometimes, it is simply a matter of exercising those rights.

To learn more about your options when confronting illegal police activity, contact a seasoned criminal investigation lawyer in Riverdale today. I will consult on your case and help hold law enforcement accountable, whether in a courtroom or not. Reach out today for a free consultation.