Beyond complying with the law and other codes of conduct, police officers must use proper judgment when interacting with civilians. Sadly, examples of police misconduct are common. When police actions result in injuries, property damage, or even death, victims and their families have the right to seek legal redress.
A Bridgeport police misconduct lawyer could listen to your story and help pursue your case. The legal team at Ruane Attorneys can provide further information about the laws that govern police behavior. We could take the lead in investigating the incident and how it has affected your life to demand proper remedies in civil and criminal court.
The Rules that Govern Police Behavior
The Bridgeport Police Department has issued directives for how officers should act in specific circumstances. These rules exist to protect both police officers and general members of the community.
Proper Use of Force
One common example of police misconduct is the improper use of force. According to General Order 3.01 of the Bridgeport Police Department, officers must properly analyze the situation when using force. This includes determining the threat to themselves and others. Department policy also requires officers to use de-escalation techniques and mitigation strategies before resorting to force. Failures to follow these processes could be examples of police misconduct.
Engaging in Vehicle Pursuit
Another common example of police misconduct involves decisions on when to engage in pursuit in a vehicle. General Order 3.06 requires officers to properly evaluate the risks of pursuing a suspect. Furthermore, the policy says officers must recognize that pursuits often result in further legal violations, property damage, and injury.
A Bridgeport police misconduct attorney at our firm could provide more information about the standards for officers. Our lawyers could investigate an incident and determine if a police officer’s actions violated these standards.
Holding Bridgeport Police Officers and Departments Accountable
The police department also establishes a process for filing a formal complaint against a specific officer or the department in general. By law, a police officer must provide this form to someone who wishes to make a complaint. However, many people may feel intimidated by this process. A police misconduct lawyer at our firm could take the lead in submitting a formal complaint and following up with the internal investigations process.
Our Bridgeport attorneys could also file formal civil lawsuits demanding proper compensation. Instances of police misconduct can result in physical injuries and property damage. An officer who commits these violations—or even the entire police department—may be responsible for these losses. Ruane Attorneys strives to help the victims of police misconduct receive the compensation they deserve. We work to see that the criminal justice system pursues formal charges against those that violate the state’s criminal code, even when these violators are in uniform.
Speak with a Bridgeport Police Misconduct Attorney Now
All police officers are legally obligated to follow established procedures. These procedures govern how they may interact with members of the public, when they can use force, and when they may pursue a suspect. These laws exist to protect the well-being of civilians. People who suffer physical injuries, property damage, or civil rights violations because of these incidents deserve justice.
A Bridgeport police misconduct lawyer could help you pursue legal remedies for your experience. At Ruane Attorneys, we can explain the duties of police officers and explore how a specific event violated those duties. We are also prepared to demand a criminal investigation into police misconduct and pursue civil remedies for affected victims. Contact us now to get started.