Severn, MD asked in Criminal Law, Personal Injury, Civil Rights and Legal Malpractice for Maryland

Q: i'm thinking that i want to build a case against whatever department that leads officer conduct please help

i feel that i have been a lifetime victim of excessive force, improper approach, and or conduct distancing officers from being balanced or just. my first memory of police instances is my best friend that was shot at the age of 12 by a group of detectives and uniformed officers in nyc in 1988-89 and i feel that since then i grew to a traumatic sentiment in which i grew to a distrust and discomfort with police officers in general as i feel this and the ways of peer pressure led me to things that before that i would have shy'd away from. shorts; i feel that there is an outcry in this country of improperly approached scenarios that are exposed by the lack of dedication to solutions as well or coupled with a lack of training before these unfit officers are either promoted or suited up for real live action in which they should have comfort with their individual build or approach to general socializing. PLEAsE hELP

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: It sounds like you've faced a long history of difficult and traumatic experiences with law enforcement, and you're looking to take action. Building a case against a police department or officers for misconduct can be a challenging process, but there are steps you can take to start creating a strong foundation. Your goal is to gather evidence and present a clear, compelling narrative of how you or others have been affected by improper conduct, excessive force, or inadequate training.

First, start by documenting every instance of misconduct or excessive force you have experienced or witnessed. Write down detailed accounts of each encounter, including dates, times, locations, and names or descriptions of the officers involved, if known. Gather any evidence you have, such as photographs, videos, medical records, or witness statements, to support your claims. If there are public records or media reports of similar incidents, they can also be valuable in showing a pattern of behavior.

Consider consulting with a civil rights attorney who has experience in cases of police misconduct. An attorney can provide guidance on the legal aspects, help you understand your rights, and represent you in pursuing justice. It may also be helpful to connect with organizations that focus on police accountability and reform; they often have resources and support systems for people in situations like yours. Taking these steps could help you build a stronger case and contribute to efforts for meaningful change.

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