When interacting with the police, it’s important to understand the rights established to protect your best interests. Additionally, you should familiarize yourself with the common tactics used by the police to elicit confessions and obtain information during the course of an investigation. One such method the police may use is to lie or deceive you. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters, including the importance of connecting with a Pleasant Hill criminal lawyer to assist you through these complicated times.
Can the Police Lie During an Investigation?
First and foremost, it’s vital to understand that multiple courts have ruled that the police are permitted to lie during the course of an investigation to obtain information regarding a crime. In general, deception is used to obtain a confession or other incriminating information that can lead to an arrest and conviction.
As such, it is important to understand the common tactics used by the police to obtain information through deception. Most commonly, the police may fabricate evidence. For example, they may tell you that they found your DNA or fingerprints at the scene of the crime, when no such evidence exists. They may even tell you that a witness informed them that you were present at the scene of the crime around the time the act in question occurred. This is used to pressure you into providing a confession or accidentally incriminating yourself while trying to dispute their claims.
In some instances, the police may also tell you that the investigation will be easier and work out better for you if you cooperate. However, it is critical to understand that this is not up to the police officers, as the prosecution is responsible for determining the charges against you.
You must know that while the police are permitted to lie to you during an investigation or interrogation, you cannot lie to the police. Doing so can result in criminal charges against you, such as perjury, contempt of court, or even false reporting. In many instances, this can also lead to an obstruction of justice charge.
How Can I Protect Myself During Interactions With Police?
If you are brought in for questioning or detained by police, it’s critical to understand the rights in place to protect you during these interactions. When interacting with law enforcement, there are two important rights you must know. First, you should know that under the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, you have the right to legal representation, even if you cannot afford one. Next, under the Fifth Amendment, you have the right to remain silent, so as not to incriminate yourself.
As such, if you are questioned by the police, you should invoke these two rights to protect yourself. The police cannot deny you access to a lawyer, nor can they force you to talk.
If you are in legal trouble, connecting with an experienced attorney is in your best interest. At O’Connor Law APC, our firm understands how difficult these matters can be to navigate. That is why we are committed to exploring all potential avenues to help you fight for the best possible outcome for your circumstances. Contact us today to learn more.
