What do you do if you experience police brutality?

On Behalf of | May 28, 2020 | Police Brutality

Under the United States Constitution, the police cannot use excessive force during an arrest. There are few exceptions when they can use force, but there are strict rules they must follow.

And yet, cases of police misconduct and brutality only seem to be increasing. So, what should you do if you come up against police brutality?

Three critical steps to take

Whether or not you are facing criminal charges, police brutality is unjust and unwarranted. Communities around Texas and the country are becoming more aware of this, but it can still be difficult to prove you suffered police brutality.

Regardless, there are three important steps you should take in these situations:

  1. Know your rightsThis is an important proactive step you must take. Understanding your rights can better help you protect them in tough situations. For example, in Texas, you have a right to record anything in a public place – including the police. The police might ask you to stop recording, but that does not mean you have to. Remember, as long as you are in public, it is your right.
  2. Record the details: Write down anything you can remember, from the police’s badge number or their name, to what happened. No detail is too small. These situations can be overwhelming and frightening. And in your shock, it might be difficult to recall details. It is important to do your best to create an honest and accurate record of the incident to help your case.
  3. Contact an attorney: If you are facing criminal charges, it is already critical to contact an experienced defense attorney to protect your rights and your future. However, if the police violated your rights and harassed or injured you, it is also critical to consult an attorney. They can help you file a report on police misconduct.

Experiencing police brutality can be traumatic, and it is critical to act fast to protect your rights.