How Can Police Misconduct Impact My Illinois Case?

 Posted on December 23, 2024 in Criminal Law

Police officers are meant to serve and protect the community. Many of them do this important job well. However, some officers abuse their power. When police misconduct happens, it can lead to false charges, unfair treatment, and even wrongful convictions. When you work with Davi Law Group, LLC, you can benefit from legal guidance from our team of experienced Illinois criminal defense attorneys who are committed to defending our clients against criminal charges and fighting back against police misconduct.

What Is Police Misconduct?

Police misconduct is when police officers break the law or violate someone’s rights when they are supposed to be doing their job and upholding the law. This can take many forms, including:

• Excessive force: Using more physical force than necessary to handle a situation.

• Unlawful search and seizure: Searching a person, home, or vehicle without proper legal authority to do so.

• False arrest: Arresting someone without probable cause or a valid warrant.

• Planting evidence: Placing illegal and incriminating items on a suspect or in their possession to make him appear guilty of committing a crime.

• Coercion: Pressuring or threatening suspects to force them to admit to crimes they did not commit.

• Racial profiling: Targeting individuals based on their race or ethnicity rather than evidence.

Police misconduct can lead to wrongful convictions and can have serious consequences for the mistreated victims.

Knowing Your Rights Can Make a Big Difference

Understanding your rights can help protect you from police misconduct. It always bears repeating that when you are arrested, you always have the right to remain silent and have a lawyer present. You can also refuse to submit to a search when there is no warrant and ask if you are free to leave if you are stopped by police but not arrested. In any interaction with the police, it is recommended to consult with an attorney as soon as you can to ensure that you understand your rights and can report any violations of them. 

How Police Misconduct Impacts Criminal Defense

If you can prove that evidence was obtained illegally or confessions were coerced, they can be inadmissible in court. This can be significant in keeping you out of jail for a crime you are wrongfully accused of committing.

When our clients suspect police misconduct has occurred, we:

• Investigate thoroughly by reviewing all evidence, including police reports, body camera footage, and witness statements, to identify any wrongdoing.

• Challenge illegal actions and file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.

• Hold officers accountable. Depending on the case, we might file complaints or lawsuits against officers who abused their power and harmed our clients.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a DuPage County, IL Criminal Defense Lawyer

Facing criminal charges is stressful, especially if police misconduct is involved. Having a qualified Wheaton, IL criminal defense attorney by your side can make a major difference. At Davi Law Group, LLC, we are dedicated to fighting for justice. We have the experience and knowledge necessary to challenge unlawful police actions and build a strong defense for your case. Call us at 630-580-6373 to schedule a free consultation.