The motto for the police is to “protect and serve.” When police cross the line and use unnecessary force, the impact is real and demands action. You may have seen a story on the news or experienced some questionable behavior yourself.
With that, you may be asking yourself, “What is police brutality, and did it happen to me?”
This is a concerning issue that is not only illegal but can also cause serious harm to victims. Many of those affected suffer from physical scars, emotional trauma, and a lasting sense of injustice.
If you have been hurt, humiliated, or mistreated by the police, you may be feeling angry, confused, or even afraid to speak up. But what happened to you should not be ignored.
This is a serious violation of your rights. You do not have to accept mistreatment or stay silent. You have options, and help is available to fight back. Here is a look at the instances of police brutality and what you can do if it has happened to you.
What Does Police Brutality Look Like?
When an officer uses excessive force or violates a person’s civil rights while performing their duties, that can be described as police brutality. While police officers have the legal authority to use a reasonable level of force in some situations, such as making an arrest or preventing a violent crime, there are clear limits.
When those limits are crossed, the result is serious physical harm, emotional trauma, or even death.
Excessive force may include:
- Unjustified shootings
- Beatings, chokings, or tasering
- Rough physical handling during arrests
- Improper use of restraints or police dogs
- Verbal abuse, racial slurs, or threats
- Denial of medical care while in custody
- Unlawful search and seizure or false arrests
While police officers are expected to uphold the law, they are not above it. Like private citizens, they can and should be held accountable when their actions cause harm or violate their rights.
How Does Police Brutality Impact Victims?
Police brutality can affect victims in many ways. Often, due to the physical nature, affected individuals will suffer injuries that require hospitalization or ongoing medical care. According to the Law Enforcement Epidemiology Project, an estimated 250,000 civilians are injured by law enforcement every year.
Along with that, there may be psychological trauma, including anxiety, depression, or PTSD, which can develop days or weeks after the encounter.
However, there is also the loss of trust in law enforcement. These individuals may no longer feel “safe” in their communities as they have been victimized by these trusted officials. Even for those who walked away with only “minor” injuries, the emotional and psychological toll of being mistreated by someone sworn to protect them can last a lifetime.
In these situations, seeking legal guidance can help you start the process of healing and reclaiming your voice.
Why Does Police Brutality Happen?
There is no single reason behind police brutality. In some cases, it is due to poor training or high-stress situations. In others, it is part of a pattern of racial profiling, abuse of power, or lack of accountability.
Sadly, many victims do not report what happened for fear of retaliation or disbelief. But speaking out matters. When you come forward, that shines a light on a system that needs change. Sometimes, it can help others find the courage to do the same.
What Are Your Legal Rights After Experiencing Police Brutality?
As a victim, you have legal rights, and these are the steps you can take to protect them:
- You have the right to file a complaint with the police department or an oversight agency.
- You have the right to pursue a civil lawsuit against the officer or department involved.
- You have the right to seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.
- You have the right to be heard.
Many victims file claims under Section 1983 of the U.S. Code. This allows people to sue government officials, including police officers, for violating their constitutional rights.
You may be able to pursue a case for violations of the Fourth Amendment (unreasonable search and seizure), the Eighth Amendment (cruel and unusual punishment), or the Fourteenth Amendment (equal protection under the law).
In some cases, West Virginia laws offer additional protections or remedies, including claims for assault, battery, or intentional infliction of emotional distress.
Why You Should Contact a Police Brutality Attorney
If you believe you have been a victim of police brutality, you will want to speak with an experienced lawyer. They can:
- Evaluate your case and explain your rights
- Gather evidence, including witness statements, body cam footage, and medical records
- Represent you in negotiations or court proceedings
- Fight for compensation and justice on your behalf
Time is vital in these cases. There are strict deadlines for filing claims. And sometimes, evidence, like body footage, can disappear quickly. Even if you are unsure whether what happened qualifies as brutality, you still may want to have a conversation with a skilled lawyer.
If you have been mistreated, hurt, or violated by an officer, you have every right to demand accountability. You deserve to be heard, believed, and supported.
Taking legal action will not erase what happened, but it can provide closure, financial relief, and the chance to help change the system for the better.
At Forbes Law Offices, we’re here to help you take that next step. Reach out today to learn about your legal options.
