Excessive force, police brutality, and the resulting fatalities have become a hot-ticket topic in the media. The reason for this sensationalism in the media and the onslaught of public protests is the outcomes associated with these trials. Too often in today’s society, these cases are overshadowed by the fact that it is police officers committing these crimes. With this detail, the real problem isn’t addressed. Not only are these occurrences hate crimes, but they are also direct violations of civil rights.
Fearing the Police
It has become a common practice to assume that despite your non-threatening actions, police officers use racial profiling quite often to make snap judgments in the field. They profile not only citizens when they stop them for the routine traffic stops, but they are also using these tactics to justify murder. If you were the victim of excessive force or police brutality contact a civil rights lawyer right now.
On-Board Patrol Car Cameras
With footage captured by onboard patrol car cameras, the justice system has convicted law enforcement officers who violated the civil rights of private citizens. However, with new laws emerging to protect private citizens, these officers are becoming more scrupulous. To avoid their ten minutes of detrimental fame, they are starting to find ways around these devices to prevent a conviction of these hate crimes.
A Peaceful Protest
Long gone are the days when the public could demonstrate their grievances through peaceful protests. In today’s society, even individuals who pose no threat to law enforcement personnel are falling victim to brutality. In recent years, this has included the unnecessary use of pepper spray and tasers. They have also included violent beatings which were clearly unwarranted.
Victims of cruel and unnecessary brutality at the hands of police officers have the right to fight back through the legal system. They have the right for their case to be tried in a court of law and to enforce their civil rights. Private citizens and police officers alike are required to follow the law in the United States. If you were the victim of police brutality or a similar crime, hire a Civil Rights Lawyer, by contacting Michael D. Ettinger & Associates.