Police Misconduct: A Nationwide Issue

Police misconduct remains a significant concern across the United States, with high-profile cases bringing widespread attention to the problem. In New Jersey, police brutality is as prevalent as in other parts of the country. Individuals facing criminal charges in New Jersey frequently encounter police misconduct, even when it isn’t deadly.

Controversial Police Departments in New Jersey

Newark, New Jersey, hosts one of the nation’s most controversial police departments. In 2014, following numerous complaints, the US Department of Justice found that the Newark Police Department routinely violated constitutional rights during searches, stops, and arrests, and often used excessive force.

Reports of unconstitutional stop-and-search practices are common, infringing on individual privacy and often yielding no evidence. Nonetheless, officers treat those searched as guilty. In one egregious instance, a 10-year-old boy was stopped and frisked by an officer.

Newark isn’t alone; police misconduct is widespread across New Jersey. In Camden, 2014 data revealed higher complaint rates of police misconduct than in larger cities with more officers. While the introduction of body cameras and dashboard cameras has helped reduce these rates, the risk of misconduct remains for those facing criminal charges.

Forms of Police Misconduct

Police misconduct manifests in various ways. While excessive force is easily recognizable, other forms are more subtle:

• False Arrest: This occurs when an individual is arrested without reasonable cause, such as without a warrant or without committing a crime in the officer’s presence, violating the Fourth Amendment. False arrests can lead to the dismissal of criminal charges.

• Excessive Force: Beyond obvious instances, excessive force can occur during routine traffic stops for minor infractions, affecting even compliant individuals.

• Failure to Intervene: Officers have a constitutional duty to protect suspects from the misconduct of their colleagues. Failure to do so constitutes police misconduct and can support an effective criminal defense.

Legal Assistance for Victims of Police Misconduct

If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges in New Jersey  and  specifically Newark, Camden, Trenton or Paterson and believe police misconduct was involved, the experienced Camden lawyers at Pagliara Law Group, can assist you. Our dedicated team can help you build a strong defense.  We represent clients in Burlington County, Camden County, Trenton, Essex county and across the state. Contact us at 1-844-4-LAWLION.