Those who have been harmed or mistreated by law enforcement may have grounds for taking action against police brutality. When an officer is negligent, uses too much force for the situation, or violates a person’s rights in another way, they may be held accountable in the court of law. But too often a police department or fellow officers fail to hold offenders accountable, which points to a serious institutional problem.
Here are just a few ways that a police officer may commit police brutality:
Denial of Medical Care
A person in the custody of police may need medication attention. An officer may deny medical care, which can lead to further injury and/or fatality to the arrested person. Not allowing someone in custody to get care for a condition or injury may constitute a rights violation.
Use of Excessive Force
Law enforcement using excessive force is one of the most common types of police brutality. In many instances, police have to use physical force to halt or apprehend armed suspects and those with a history of being violent. An officer can use reasonable force if another officer were to use that same degree in a similar situation. However, an officer may cross the line, inflicting more force than was necessary. Excessive force may include:
- Unlawful takedowns
- Unwarranted use of tasers
- Baton beatings
- Use of firearms
Racial Discrimination
No one should experience unlawful treatment by police, particularly if race or another protected characteristic was the motivating factor. Racial discrimination may occur in combination with excessive force or unwarranted arrest.
If you need assistance after a recent police brutality incident, contact a police brutality lawyer at Des Moines Injury Law immediately.
