Q: A detective called me and said if I didn’t turn myself in now my face would be front page news.
This was my first offense. I was never a flight risk. He was threatening me and I never was a threat. Is this legal to do? This was my first communication w him. It was so scary. I was young and had no idea what was going to happen with it being my first offense.
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- California
- (916) 704-3009
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- Answered
A:
Under California law, a detective or any law enforcement officer is expected to follow certain protocols when dealing with suspects, especially first-time offenders. The behavior you described, where the detective threatened to make your face front-page news, can be seen as intimidation or coercion, which is not appropriate conduct. Law enforcement should not use threats to compel you to turn yourself in.
If you believe the detective's behavior was improper, you have the right to file a complaint with the police department or agency involved. This can be done through their internal affairs division or a civilian oversight board if available. Documenting the incident, including the detective's name, the time of the call, and what was said, will be helpful in making your complaint.
Additionally, you may want to consult with an attorney to understand your rights and the best steps to take next. Legal advice can provide you with more specific guidance tailored to your situation, ensuring that your rights are protected and that any misconduct is appropriately addressed.
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