What are some examples of misconduct by police officers?
Surveillance abuse, planting evidence, racial profiling, excessive force, corruption, false imprisonment, and assault are just a few more examples of illegal acts committed by police officers. What Should I do if I Believe a Police Officer is Guilty of Misconduct?
Can police legally bust into house parties if they smell marijuana?
When cops smell marijuana or see kids drinking, officers often try to use the “destruction of evidence/contraband” exigency as a way to justifiably bust into a house party. However, courts have held that the smell of freshly burned marijuana is not enough, by itself, for a warrantless entry:
What happens when you call the police on your neighbors?
Officers will likely come to your neighborhood and start an investigation. That might mean a knock on your neighbor’s door, at which point the police might reveal that you were the one who called. You might be asked to file a report or appear as a witness in court.
What makes a search by the police unreasonable?
All searches by police must be reasonable. Unreasonable searches are illegal, which generally makes the evidence recovered through any unreasonable search inadmissible at trial. But what makes a search unreasonable? The answer depends on where the search occurs, and the greatest protections we have against police searching are inside our homes.
Can a police officer Pat you down for no reason?
Arguing with a police officer or resisting arrest can give an officer probable cause for the arrest. Police are permitted to pat you down to ensure that you are not carrying a dangerous weapon. However, do not consent to a search of your person, belongings, vehicle, or home.
Can a law enforcement officer commit a crime while on duty?
A law enforcement officer may not commit a crime while on duty or off duty. In either case, the law holds the officer accountable for his or her actions. Police officers who commit crimes face the same criminal penalties as other citizens.
What are some examples of wrongful actions taken by the police?
Examples of actions taken by police officers that may be considered wrongful or illegal: Police officers cannot conduct searches and seizures without a warrant or probable cause, unless the person is already under arrest. If the arrest is false, any evidence obtained typically falls under the exclusionary rule.