Living in a democratic society, you possess certain inalienable rights that even law enforcement officials must respect during an arrest. However, instances occur where the police might violate these civil rights. Knowing what these violations are can equip you to...
Civil Rights Violations
What is a wrongful conviction?
If someone accuses you of a crime you did not commit; you may assume your innocence will be obvious to the judge and jury overlooking your case. Unfortunately, this does not always happen. In the U.S., many people face wrongful convictions. In fact, since 1989, the...
How to respond to police misconduct
The police are a vital part of society for keeping the peace. The high level of responsibility means law enforcement officers have an elevated standard to uphold. Unfortunately, police misconduct can still cause civil rights issues as there is no guarantee that all...
What are your rights when the police show up at your door?
If officers show up at your door, do you know what they can and cannot do? There are rights you have in every police encounter afforded to you under the law. The American Civil Liberties Union recommends making sure you understand your rights when encountering law...
When may law enforcement collect and store DNA samples?
The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects citizens from unreasonable search and seizure. Protection also applies to DNA samples. The American Bar Association notes that collecting DNA for evidence requires due process. If law enforcement officials have...
What are civil rights?
People often talk about their civil rights, but many people do not fully understand what this means. Civil rights are a privilege given to people under the law, according to the Legal Information Institute. In the United States, people get their civil rights through...
What is the right to due process?
As a U.S. citizen, you have many rights. You gain these through the constitution, which provides you some important protections, especially when you face criminal charges. One of those rights is due process, but many people do not understand what this means. Cornell...
Accountability for New York City police misconduct
Law enforcement officers violating an individual's civil rights harm not only the detainee but also New York City residents. As reported by CNBC, cities and municipalities across the nation settle misconduct complaints totaling hundreds of millions of dollars each...
Harassment while detained by police may lead to a legal action
The U.S. Constitution protects against unlawful search procedures, harassment and discrimination. When law enforcement officials violate an individual's civil rights, a legal action may hold them accountable. It may also provide compensation for physical and emotional...
Body cameras don’t protect the public when the police play games
Body cameras are designed to protect the police from false charges of misconduct, provide evidence that can potentially be used and court and -- most importantly -- deter officers from violating a suspect’s civil rights. So, what did the New York City’s Civilian...