The police are there to look out for us and protect us. But sometimes situations get heated, and things get out of control. When matters escalate, police brutality can occur.
If you were the victim of police brutality, you need a good Columbia personal injury lawyer on your side to see to it that you get the compensation you deserve.
What are Some Forms of Police Brutality?
Police brutality is defined as a form of police misconduct which involves undue force by police members. Here are some examples of police brutality:
- You were unarmed, and you were beaten or shot by a police officer during an arrest
- You were choked or beaten by a police officer while being restrained
- A police officer used a Taser gun or another sort of weapon to subdue you during a minor offense
- You were hit by a police officer while waiting for a trial or your bond
- You were raped or sexually assaulted by a police officer or prison guard
Police brutality does not always occur in the form of physical violence. Here are some examples of different types of police brutality:
- Coercion or blackmail
- Racial profiling
- Unnecessary and degrading strip searches
- Sexual assault
- Unnecessary physical violence
Victims of police brutality may suffer from emotional and physical pain. They may have excessive medical bills and lose income due to taking time off work to recover from injuries. In some cases, police brutality can even result in death.
The Growing Problem of Police Brutality
Police brutality is all too common in the United States. In South Carolina, cameras have been installed in police and criminal facilities to document situations that get out of hand. The cameras were put in place to provide evidence in matters where police brutality is being questioned.
However, many officers state that the cameras are expensive and difficult to use, and they may not record evidence.
It can also be difficult for a victim of police brutality to defend themselves in a criminal case against a police officer. After police brutality occurs, it is up to the officers to file a police report. These reports are often written in the officer’s favor.
When it comes to proving a case in court, it often comes down to ‘he said, she said.’ This can leave victims at a clear disadvantage when going after a police officer in a court of law.
What to Do After a Police Brutality Incident
A police brutality case may not be easy to fight, but the actions you take after the incident occurs can make all the difference in helping you get the compensation you deserve. Here are some things you should do immediately after being victimized:
- Take photos of your injuries
- Seek medical attention
- Get the name of any witnesses
- Talk to a police brutality lawyer
Finding the Right Police Brutality Lawyer for Your Police Brutality Case
Being victimized by a police officer is a traumatic occurrence. The police are supposed to be there to protect you. It is not uncommon for victims to feel as if they may have done something wrong.
Also, defending yourself against a government agency can be daunting and intimidating. However, it is vital that you step up and get the compensation you deserve. The right police brutality lawyer will be by your side every step of the way to see to it that justice is served.
If you are in the South Carolina area, the Jeffcoat firm is highly recommended for its ability to protect clients in cases of police brutality.
The Jeffcoat Firm has years of experience helping clients get compensation for their injuries. They take the time to understand the value of your case and always put their clients first in the decision-making processes. They are known for their aggressive representation, honest evaluations, and affordable fees.
If you were the victim of police brutality, seeking compensation can give you the closure you need to move on with your life. The Jeffcoat firm will take care of all the legal legwork making your experience as stress-free as possible. For the best representation in your police brutality case, call Jeffcoat first.
