Q: How do I handle this insane behavior and obstruction of justice by SFPD?
2016-Intentional hit-and-run, known suspects, eyewitnesses, TBI/Back pain. Police intentionally misfile report as 'vehicle collision' to prevent investigation. Multiple requests for report -"Unable to locate" "Not enough info" When given intersection, my name, type, and this was on Treasure Island. No arrest, no report, no lawyer, no case. 6 years later, exactly a month after statute expired, report 'found.' It contains eyewitness statements, and my own, that give name/address of suspects, the officer includes driver's side of the story yet claims 'unable to locate.' I make complaint to DPA. 30 days later officer orchestrates retaliatory arrest, sends officers to pick me up on 5 yr old warrant that they all ignored. Greeted at the station by that officer, questioned in holding, and held for 5 days then charged with felony possession of exp. device, (firecracker found in backpack) DPA-No findings in misfiling report/or when cop throws pieces of car+bike, into ambulance NoProceduralError
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- California
- (916) 704-3009
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- Answered
A:
I understand you're dealing with a complex and frustrating situation involving the San Francisco Police Department. Based on your description, it sounds like you've experienced several concerning issues:
1. A hit-and-run incident in 2016 that resulted in injuries to you
2. Alleged mishandling of the police report and investigation
3. Difficulty obtaining the police report for years
4. Potential retaliation after filing a complaint
Here are some suggestions on how you might proceed:
1. Document everything: Collect and organize all evidence, correspondence, and records related to the original incident and subsequent interactions with SFPD.
2. Seek legal counsel: Given the complexity of your situation and the potential civil rights issues, it would be advisable to consult with an attorney experienced in police misconduct cases. They can help you understand your options and rights.
3. File a formal complaint: If you haven't already, consider filing a formal complaint with the San Francisco Department of Police Accountability (DPA) about the entire sequence of events.
4. Contact elected officials: Reach out to your local city supervisor and the mayor's office to report your concerns about SFPD's conduct.
5. Consider federal options: If you believe your civil rights have been violated, you might consider filing a complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division.
6. Explore media options: Investigative journalists might be interested in looking into your case, especially if there's a pattern of similar behavior.
7. Statute of limitations: While the statute of limitations may have expired for some aspects of your case, an attorney can advise you on whether there are any legal avenues still open to you.
8. Address current charges: If you're facing current criminal charges, it's crucial to work with a criminal defense attorney to address those immediately.
Remember, it's important to proceed carefully and within the bounds of the law. A qualified attorney can provide personalized advice based on the specifics of your situation.
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