Bautista LeRoy Blog

816-221-0382

Legal Options Available To Victims Assaulted By Police Officers

Posted by Bautista Leroy | Mar 14, 2020 | 0 Comments

assaulted by police officers

Victims of police officer assaults can pursue legal action for justice and compensation. This is an extreme breach of civil rights that should not go unpunished. Victims should seek legal action against law enforcement officials to hold them accountable for their misconduct.

Victims should file a complaint with their local law enforcement agency, and if internal processes lead to disciplinary measures, they may consider filing a civil suit under section 1983 of the U.S.C, which allows victims to sue government officials for violating their constitutional rights, including excessive force during arrests and misconduct.

Section 1983 lawsuits require victims to prove that an officer violated their constitutional rights and state law by unlawfully acting. These claims, particularly those protecting the Fourth Amendment against unreasonable searches and seizures and the Eighth Amendment against cruel or unusual punishment, can be challenging due to the need for substantial evidence. If successful, the lawsuit can result in financial damages for victims and punitive penalties on law enforcement for future misconduct, making law enforcement more accountable.

State tort claims provide another avenue of recourse. Depending on their jurisdiction, victims might be eligible to bring individual or departmental officer allegations of assault and battery or intentional torts such as intentional stalking against law enforcement agents. Additionally, if negligent hiring, training, or supervising decisions led to officer acts. State tort lawsuits provide victims additional compensation when Section 1983 claims are no longer viable.

Police officer assault victims can file criminal charges in rare cases but should explore them when significant misconduct occurs. They can approach their local district attorney or prosecutor, facing fines, suspensions, or imprisonment. Criminal trials require more proof than civil lawsuits, and penalties can range from fines to imprisonment.

Victims can seek systemic reform through legal action against individual officers, system-wide changes through system tort claims under Section 1983 or state tort claims, and working with civil rights groups to advocate for legislation that increases accountability, such as body cameras, independent oversight panels, or stronger policies on using force by officers.

Qualified immunity shields law enforcement officers from civil liability, preventing them from being sued unless their actions violate constitutional rights. However, victims filing Section 1983 lawsuits may face challenges as courts often determine that an officer's conduct was not unconstitutional. Legal strategies may be available when the officer's behavior is outrageous or beyond their authority.

Victims of police misconduct need legal counsel to navigate the legal system and gather evidence. Attorneys specializing in civil rights law or personal injury can assist by advocating on their behalf. They can advise on the best course of action, whether it's civil litigation or tort claims against states, to ensure the best results.

Victims of police assault have several options open to them after experiencing one, such as filing an internal complaint, pursuing Section 1984 lawsuits or state tort claims, or seeking criminal prosecution against their officer. While immunity and legal barriers might prevent compensation from being awarded directly from courts, their cases could contribute towards reforming police practices and increasing accountability within law enforcement agencies.

For inquiries related to traffic accident laws or injury laws, or to hire an accident attorney, contact the legal professionals of Bautista LeRoy LLC through this number 816-221-0382 or email them at [email protected]. Serving Kansas City, MO and KS as well as surrounding areas of Benton County and St. Louis.

About the Author

Comments

There are no comments for this post. Be the first and Add your Comment below.

Leave a Comment

Bautista LeRoy LLC Is Here for You

At Bautista LeRoy, we focus on Elder and Nursing Home Abuse, Defective Products, Trucking and Auto Collisions, Railroad Crossing Litigation, Wrongful Death, Medical Malpractice, and Civil Rights and we are here to listen to you and help you navigate the legal system. Serving Kansas City, MO and KS, Arkansas, Illinois, as well as surrounding areas of Benton County and St. Louis.

Contact Us Today

Bautista LeRoy is committed to answering your questions about Elder and Nursing Home Abuse, Defective Products, Trucking and Auto Collisions, Railroad Crossing Litigation, Wrongful Death, Medical Malpractice, and Civil Rights law issues in Missouri. Serving Kansas City, MO and KS, Arkansas, Illinois, as well as surrounding areas of Benton County and St. Louis.

We offer a Free Consultation and we'll gladly discuss your case with you at your convenience. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Menu