St Louis, MO asked in Civil Rights and Criminal Law for Missouri

Q: Hello, What would be my next step if police used excessive force to enter my home with out knocking and announcing. ?

The warrent IS NOT a no knock warrent.

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: If the police used excessive force to enter your home without knocking and announcing, and the warrant was not a no-knock warrant, you have several steps you can take to address this violation of your rights. First, document everything that happened, including the date, time, and details of the incident. Take photos or videos of any damage or injuries, and write down the names and badge numbers of the officers involved if you have them.

Next, file a formal complaint with the internal affairs division of the police department involved. This process ensures that the incident is officially recorded and investigated by the department. Additionally, you can contact your local civilian review board if one is available in your area.

Consult with an attorney who specializes in civil rights or police misconduct cases. They can help you understand your legal options, which may include filing a lawsuit for violations of your Fourth Amendment rights. An attorney can guide you through the process of seeking compensation for damages and holding the responsible officers accountable for their actions.

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