Civil rights breaches by police officers are a persistent problem in the United States, with reports of misbehavior making news virtually every day. Over the last year, reports of police brutality and other civil rights violations have stirred widespread public indignation and fueled calls for justice and accountability. These challenges have highlighted the crucial importance of transparency, impartiality, and respect for individuals’ rights in law enforcement.
But what really qualifies as a civil rights violation by a police officer? How can you detect these breaches, and what should you do if you’ve been affected? These infractions can take many forms, ranging from excessive force to wrongful arrests, and their consequences can be disastrous for both persons and society.
In this article, we will look at some of the most typical types of civil rights abuses by police personnel. We’ll also explain why having an expert civil rights attorney on your side is critical for holding law enforcement accountable and protecting your rights.
What Is A Civil Rights Violation?
A civil rights violation happens when a person is discriminated against or has their constitutional rights violated because of personal traits protected by federal law. Civil rights laws exist to protect persons from unjust treatment and provide equal protection, particularly in work, housing, education, and public services.
The primary forms of discrimination that constitute civil rights violations are:
- Race or ethnicity discrimination
- Gender or sex discrimination
- Handicap discrimination
- Age discrimination
- Religious discrimination
Civil rights violations occur when these protected traits are used to justify unjust treatment or denial of rights. These infractions can have serious consequences for individuals and their capacity to fully engage in society. It’s critical to recognize these rights and take legal action if you believe they’ve been infringed.
Common Civil Rights Violations By The Police
Many people experience police misbehavior and may be unaware that their civil rights have been violated. Understanding these violations is critical for anyone who has been mistreated by law enforcement. Citizens can hold police accountable under 42 U.S.C. Section 1983 for constitutional infractions such as police violence or misconduct. This legislation enables victims of civil rights violations to seek justice and compensation. Here are some of the most common civil rights violations by the police:
- Racial Profiling
Racial profiling is when law enforcement targets somebody for suspicion, investigation, or arrest purely because of their race or ethnicity. This practice, while illegal, persists in some police departments and results in discriminatory treatment of particular racial groups. It violates an individual’s right to equal treatment under the law. - False Arrest
A false arrest happens when police officers detain or arrest someone without reasonable or legal justification. This could be due to misidentification, a lack of proof, or even incorrect assumptions. An arrest without probable cause violates an individual’s constitutional rights and personal freedom. - Malicious Prosecution
Malicious prosecution occurs when police personnel commence or pursue criminal proceedings against a person without a valid legal basis. This could include manufacturing evidence, concealing exculpatory evidence, or prosecuting a case with the purpose to hurt the individual rather than seeking justice. It violates an individual’s right to a fair trial. - Unreasonable Search or Seizure
The Fourth Amendment protects people from unwarranted searches and seizures by law enforcement. Police that search or confiscate property without probable cause or a valid warrant are breaching a person’s civil rights. This involves searching someone without proof or seizing objects unrelated to the suspected offense. - Excessive Force
Excessive force occurs when law enforcement officials use more physical force than is required to subdue an individual. It may include utilizing unnecessary violence, which frequently results in serious injuries or even death. This is one of the most well-known and harmful civil rights breaches, because it erodes public trust in law enforcement.
If you suspect the police have violated your civil rights, you should contact a knowledgeable civil rights attorney. They can help you navigate the legal process, ensure your rights are protected, and seek justice for any wrongdoings.
Civil Rights Attorney in California
At Kirakosian Law, we are dedicated to safeguarding the civil rights that are fundamental to our democracy. We are passionate about ensuring that all individuals are treated equally, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation. Our firm is committed to standing up for those whose rights and dignity have been violated by police officers, government officials, large corporations, or any other entity that abuses its power.
We are also fiercely dedicated to holding government bodies accountable for misconduct, especially when it involves law enforcement or elected officials who violate the trust placed in them by the public. At Kirakosian Law, we are prepared to take even the toughest cases to federal court to fight for justice and ensure that your rights are upheld.
Excessive force and police misconduct are becoming increasingly prevalent, and our firm is at the forefront of pursuing cases related to false arrests, unjustified shootings, and other abuses of authority. We are committed to holding those in power accountable and securing justice for those who have been wronged.
