What is Police Misconduct?
Police officers are trusted by community members to keep them safe. But when they violate that trust, they should be held responsible for their actions.
Police misconduct occurs when a police officer violates an individual’s constitutional rights while performing their official duties. These types of cases can be highly controversial and typically require the experience of a knowledgeable police misconduct attorney to obtain justice for the victims.
In California, there are numerous types of police misconduct but some of the most common ones include:
Excessive Use of Force
California police officers are required to only use the amount of force as reasonably necessary for each specific situation. When excessive force is used, victims can sustain serious injuries leading to extensive medical treatment. In the worst-case scenarios, excessive use of force can lead to wrongful death.
Police Shootings
Officer-involved shootings are one the most common and tragic examples of excessive use of force. While officers have the authority to use guns, they are lethal weapons that should be used as a last resort. When officers neglectfully engage in an unjustified shooting, innocent victims and their families pay the price. When these controversial incidents happen, our personal injury attorneys aggressively pursue justice and maximum compensation for the victim or their families.
False Arrests
Police officers must have probable cause to arrest and take an individual into custody. However, when an officer uses his or her position to make a false arrest, he or she is breaking the law. Unfortunately, false arrests can leave victims with long-lasting psychological trauma.
False Imprisonment
In California, it is unlawful for police officers to restrain, detain, or confine a person without proper justification. Victims of false imprisonment may be entitled to significant compensation.
Falsifying Evidence
Police officers have a duty to protect the lives and property of the community. They are also expected to do so with honor and integrity while upholding high ethical standards. However, some police officers engage in actions that contradict these ethical standards. Falsifying evidence or planting evidence is a practice used to secure the arrest or conviction of an innocent individual. This practice is against the law and can lead to the wrongful arrest or incarceration of innocent victims.
Sexual Harassment
It is unlawful for police officers to sexually harass individuals in the community. Sexual harassment from a police officer can include any unwelcomed sexual conduct including lewd or sexual comments.
The law protects victims from all kinds of sexual harassment and applies equally to both men and women. Victims should not hesitate to seek help if they have been sexually harassed by a police officer.
Consult with a Police Misconduct and Shooting Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been wrongfully mistreated or injured by a police officer in California, don’t hesitate to seek justice. Our experienced police misconduct lawyers have the knowledge, experience, and compassion to help you obtain the justice you deserve. Contact Mesriani Law Group today to see how we can help you with your possible case.
