Ex-Cop’s Wife Shares Tips On What You Should Never Do When You Get Arrested
We’ve all watched TV shows like Law & Order and CSI: Crime Scene Investigation where officers of the law try their best to catch the bad guy, employing everything at their power to get incriminating evidence on their suspect. And it wouldn’t be too far from truth to say that one of the best moments on television is when the suspect cracks during interrogation and calls for a lawyer, even if they’ve already gave away enough information. Well, real life is far from what we see on television and, unfortunately, for some people this difference can lead to a lot of trouble.
One Tumblr user, claiming to be former police officer’s wife, has decided to share some friendly advice with people who might end up on the wrong side of the law. While television might make you believe that calling your lawyer might indicate that you’re hiding a crime, reality is much different. People joined in to express their own opinions and experiences, and hey, you never know when you might need this information in your life. Better safe than sorry!
As life works in mysterious ways, you never know when you might end up on the wrong side of the law
Image credits: Einar Jørgen Haraldseid
Even if you didn’t do anything wrong, police can still treat you like a suspect, so an ex-cop’s wife decided to give some advice in case you get arrested
Image credits: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
180Kviews
Share on FacebookBe very careful around police full stop - even when you are the complainant. They have their own agenda and rules, or just plain thoughtlesness, some of which may not be in your best interests.
I learned that years ago when I was a witness to a motorcyclist being hit by traffic starting up as a light turned green, and a car hit him before he could get his cycle moving. I stayed to help the police with what I knew -- and the cop took MY license, as well as that of every other witness, and ran them to make sure we weren't hiding from something! Ever since then I've firmly believed that that right to a lawyer is the most valuable right in the Constitution at such times! Fortunately, he didn't find anything on me, but he kept all us witnesses standing around for over half an hour before he would give us our licenses back. I'm still PO'd about it, and it's been over 20 years now!
Load More Replies...A Harvard Law professor explains why you should never talk to police: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i8z7NC5sgik
Saw that, a great video. Many people think of cops as some protectors and helpers but imho that is not true. Their main goal is at better case to protect the law, at worst case they are corrupt and function only as money collectors for banal offenses (and do nothing in face of real crime) who lie and use nasty and unlawful tactics. Unfortunately that is also my personal experience.
Load More Replies...These are all good advices. Now the next question is: how to get a lawyer? Also, in case you're an immigrant (a legal and documented one), is it wise to call your embassy first?
You state clearly, "I want a lawyer." That is what you say. That is all you say. Every time they ask you anything. You are given a phone call; call your embassy. Tell them you have asked for a lawyer but not been assigned one yet.
Load More Replies...I'm studying the law right now to take the bar exam. Talking to an officer will do you absolutely no good because anything that can be used in your favor cannot be brought up in court. That is considered hearsay. So if you tell a cop what you were doing and it totally clears you - what you said to the cop cannot be used in your defense. What you say that is AGAINST your interests can be used against you because that is a hearsay exception. So there is literally no good that can come out of talking to the cops, as they can only use what you say against you and nothing for you.
I have a Masters degree in Criminal Justice. Just know that after you have been detained, everything, I mean everything the police do is to get a confession. If arrested or detained in any way. Keep you mouth shut and ONLY talk to your lawyer.
Also, never consent to any search without a warrant. Don't let police look in your car etc... You have rights for a reason.
Frontline did a documentary about false confessions. Very amazing. I always laugh when ppl disregard the 4th amendment bc they think they have nothing to hide. The truth is, it doesn’t matter, it can be twisted around and misinterpreted. Pro Publica did a story on the really lousy, non-scientific way blood splatter is being used bc it’s in the hands of cops and not scientists.
This all good advice, I'd add if any policeman or investigator comes to your home and knocks, ask to come in, say no, not without a warrant, it doesn't matter if this makes you "look" guilty, better that than to be an innocent person in jail / prison. (I've never been to jail and had 2 traffic tickets over 20 yrs, but I still would never willingly talk or allow anyone with that much power into my home without cause)
My father is a newly retired cop, and my brother and I grew up being told this very thing the majority of our lives. I can hear his voice even now saying, "if they've read you your rights, every single thing that you say from that point can and WILL be used against you. Therefore, respectfully decline to answer any questions without a lawyer present, as per your right." He told us this in the event that we were EVER read our rights for ANY reason, from something major to minor, ANY reason. Glad to see here that pop wasn't exaggerating at all.
Also if they ask you, if you understand your right to remain silent. Don't answer. The only thing you'll say is: Lawyer! It does p**s them off if you stay silent, but you won't harm yourself.
Unless you're black, in which case they'll then hit you or shoot you and say that your refusal to answer equated to resisting arrest even though you were already handcuffed. And yes, a cop has shot an unarmed and handcuffed black person before.
Load More Replies...First thing you're taught in CrimPro class during law school: If you're ever arrested, shut the f**k up and ask for an attorney. Cops will never have your best interest at heart if they believe they have probable cause to arrest you. You don't have to have a guilty mind to ask for a lawyer, even though people love saying otherwise when they think the truth always comes out. The problem is that the truth doesn't always come out, and innocent people inadvertently get themselves painted into a corner by skilled interrogators. Again, if your ever arrested, shut the f**k up and call your attorney.
British policeman here... Always makes me think about society when there is so much advice about how to get out of trouble rather than how not to get in it! A few things to make clear: 1. Police are not about getting convictions, getting confessions and getting our arrest rates up, we are about helping the victim. For every crime there is a victim or a potential victim. We see them daily and just want to be able to help them get a little justice. We don't have the time nor interest to lock up the innocent. 2. An interview is part of the evidential chain. It's not for a confession, it's to fill the blanks of the story. 3. Get a lawyer if you want. It really doesn't bother us, we behave no different with or without one. IF YOU ARE INNOCENT DON'T SAY NOTHING. I have seen some really bad advice from lawyers in the past that have told their clients to stay silent where they then get a conviction at court but could easily have got a slap on the wrist by just saying 'yes it was me, sorry'
"IF YOU ARE INNOCENT DON'T SAY NOTHING." After reading your response there are 2 things that come to mind: that statement and the fact that you're a British police officer. Firstly, how similar is the judicial system in Britain to that of the American courts? Here in America, we have presumption of innocence until proven guilt (burden of proof is on the prosecution). Secondly, it is our right (as per the 5th Amendment- the right to not incriminate oneself- aka, "I plead the Fifth.") to not say anything to law enforcement. My dad was a Peace Officer, and one of the first things he told me (when I was able to understand more complex ideas- 11-13 years old), that cops are not your friends if you're not a victim (for the most part). So, while I understand what you're saying a as a British police officer, your advice does not necessarily resonate with Americans being detained/questioned by law enforcement officers.
Load More Replies...Good article with some very important points everybody should know. I live in Czech Republic and some of the advices could apply here too - especially the "never talk with police" thing.
Police are not here to help you, they are there to pin something on you or someone else. NEVER speak to them other than to give you name. Admit nothing, even if they claim witnesses "It wasn't me" is my motto.... and no, I have no record and shouldn't have to be afraid of them.... but I am.
Get a public defender maybe...after you've been bailed out if applicable..Shelling out $5000 out of the gate for a DUI is just another kick in the face. If you aren't a felon you're part of a system that will treat you like an insignificant #. Public defender will be more personal with the judge than a lawyer will be. The public defender sees the judge every day...You could hire a lawyer the judge doesn't like. Then you're screwed x 2.
I'm white, female and a lot older than I used to be. White Cops used to buy the young and female bit. They still do no matter your race. Guys, they won't buy it from you no matter what, unless your dad is rich.
I remember watching a criminal minds episode where it was a "trend" to tie a noose and hang yourself not long enough so you die but pass out and of course, some kids didn't get down in time and died so 2 of the FBI agents went to the local high school where most of the kids who died went (oh yeah, they recorded it too) to that high school and saying things like "don't do it" and blah blah blah and this emo guy(remember this was sometime between 2005 and 2007 so emo was thriving at the time) and the guy literally ran from the room and basically what I'm saying it like don't run because
Also odd enough,the show Lucifer actually has some good crimes in it it's on netflix
Load More Replies...Oh well, can't ask or expect too much from some people : had my wallet stolen (ID card, drivers licence, bank cards, money, etc ...) on the street. Day after I go to the police head office to ask for a temporary ID document, just in case I need it. After a little explanation why I came to them (normally it's up to town hall to make that, but town hall was closed for holidays) the officer (VERY RELUCTANTLY) decides to help. First question he asks : "ID card !"
You know.....I've been arrested A LOT. Yea I was a f**k am and not much has changed. Every 2 years I manage to do something stupid or find myself in a ridiculous situation that my not be my fault but upon further review I did something to get myself in said situation. Now, I have dealt with some real d**k head cops. I have also dealt with some just by the book cops. And then there is the cool cop who is about to get off his shift and doesn't want to do the paperwork. It's on you to make that determination. If the odds of you getting busted are over 50% without you're cooperation I recommend just cooperating. Tell them where the drugs are and hope for the best. I've had cops let me dump all my s**t down the runoff drain on the side of the road after a DUI. And more than once they just took the goods and let me go. And yea he's getting high at home on my dime but it's better than jail. But if he's a straight up d**k, make him work.
“Not much has changed.” Why, why! You have driven drunk. That puts your and many other lives of innocent men, women, and children at risk. Please, take a look at yourself. YOU CAN STILL CHANGE. It will take time and effort, but you can do it. You can prevent yourself from being the next news story “drunk driver kills single mother of 3.” You can save yourself. You can save others.
Load More Replies...Nah, I've known lots of people (both from my time as a reporter and now working for the courts) who got the cops on them without committing any crime. Never forget that it is illegal for a citizen to lie to police, but part of the training for police to lie to everyone else. You can walk in a saint and be arrested for treason if they decide it's worth the time - they don't care about facts or truth.
Load More Replies...If people that work or have worked in law enforcement or their partners say "Get a lawyer.", I'd rather believe them than some "reality" tv series that's censored by the policeforce. Among all the good cops there are also bad cops and a lawyer can protect you from false allegations or bogus charges like "Walking While Black."
Load More Replies...Be very careful around police full stop - even when you are the complainant. They have their own agenda and rules, or just plain thoughtlesness, some of which may not be in your best interests.
I learned that years ago when I was a witness to a motorcyclist being hit by traffic starting up as a light turned green, and a car hit him before he could get his cycle moving. I stayed to help the police with what I knew -- and the cop took MY license, as well as that of every other witness, and ran them to make sure we weren't hiding from something! Ever since then I've firmly believed that that right to a lawyer is the most valuable right in the Constitution at such times! Fortunately, he didn't find anything on me, but he kept all us witnesses standing around for over half an hour before he would give us our licenses back. I'm still PO'd about it, and it's been over 20 years now!
Load More Replies...A Harvard Law professor explains why you should never talk to police: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i8z7NC5sgik
Saw that, a great video. Many people think of cops as some protectors and helpers but imho that is not true. Their main goal is at better case to protect the law, at worst case they are corrupt and function only as money collectors for banal offenses (and do nothing in face of real crime) who lie and use nasty and unlawful tactics. Unfortunately that is also my personal experience.
Load More Replies...These are all good advices. Now the next question is: how to get a lawyer? Also, in case you're an immigrant (a legal and documented one), is it wise to call your embassy first?
You state clearly, "I want a lawyer." That is what you say. That is all you say. Every time they ask you anything. You are given a phone call; call your embassy. Tell them you have asked for a lawyer but not been assigned one yet.
Load More Replies...I'm studying the law right now to take the bar exam. Talking to an officer will do you absolutely no good because anything that can be used in your favor cannot be brought up in court. That is considered hearsay. So if you tell a cop what you were doing and it totally clears you - what you said to the cop cannot be used in your defense. What you say that is AGAINST your interests can be used against you because that is a hearsay exception. So there is literally no good that can come out of talking to the cops, as they can only use what you say against you and nothing for you.
I have a Masters degree in Criminal Justice. Just know that after you have been detained, everything, I mean everything the police do is to get a confession. If arrested or detained in any way. Keep you mouth shut and ONLY talk to your lawyer.
Also, never consent to any search without a warrant. Don't let police look in your car etc... You have rights for a reason.
Frontline did a documentary about false confessions. Very amazing. I always laugh when ppl disregard the 4th amendment bc they think they have nothing to hide. The truth is, it doesn’t matter, it can be twisted around and misinterpreted. Pro Publica did a story on the really lousy, non-scientific way blood splatter is being used bc it’s in the hands of cops and not scientists.
This all good advice, I'd add if any policeman or investigator comes to your home and knocks, ask to come in, say no, not without a warrant, it doesn't matter if this makes you "look" guilty, better that than to be an innocent person in jail / prison. (I've never been to jail and had 2 traffic tickets over 20 yrs, but I still would never willingly talk or allow anyone with that much power into my home without cause)
My father is a newly retired cop, and my brother and I grew up being told this very thing the majority of our lives. I can hear his voice even now saying, "if they've read you your rights, every single thing that you say from that point can and WILL be used against you. Therefore, respectfully decline to answer any questions without a lawyer present, as per your right." He told us this in the event that we were EVER read our rights for ANY reason, from something major to minor, ANY reason. Glad to see here that pop wasn't exaggerating at all.
Also if they ask you, if you understand your right to remain silent. Don't answer. The only thing you'll say is: Lawyer! It does p**s them off if you stay silent, but you won't harm yourself.
Unless you're black, in which case they'll then hit you or shoot you and say that your refusal to answer equated to resisting arrest even though you were already handcuffed. And yes, a cop has shot an unarmed and handcuffed black person before.
Load More Replies...First thing you're taught in CrimPro class during law school: If you're ever arrested, shut the f**k up and ask for an attorney. Cops will never have your best interest at heart if they believe they have probable cause to arrest you. You don't have to have a guilty mind to ask for a lawyer, even though people love saying otherwise when they think the truth always comes out. The problem is that the truth doesn't always come out, and innocent people inadvertently get themselves painted into a corner by skilled interrogators. Again, if your ever arrested, shut the f**k up and call your attorney.
British policeman here... Always makes me think about society when there is so much advice about how to get out of trouble rather than how not to get in it! A few things to make clear: 1. Police are not about getting convictions, getting confessions and getting our arrest rates up, we are about helping the victim. For every crime there is a victim or a potential victim. We see them daily and just want to be able to help them get a little justice. We don't have the time nor interest to lock up the innocent. 2. An interview is part of the evidential chain. It's not for a confession, it's to fill the blanks of the story. 3. Get a lawyer if you want. It really doesn't bother us, we behave no different with or without one. IF YOU ARE INNOCENT DON'T SAY NOTHING. I have seen some really bad advice from lawyers in the past that have told their clients to stay silent where they then get a conviction at court but could easily have got a slap on the wrist by just saying 'yes it was me, sorry'
"IF YOU ARE INNOCENT DON'T SAY NOTHING." After reading your response there are 2 things that come to mind: that statement and the fact that you're a British police officer. Firstly, how similar is the judicial system in Britain to that of the American courts? Here in America, we have presumption of innocence until proven guilt (burden of proof is on the prosecution). Secondly, it is our right (as per the 5th Amendment- the right to not incriminate oneself- aka, "I plead the Fifth.") to not say anything to law enforcement. My dad was a Peace Officer, and one of the first things he told me (when I was able to understand more complex ideas- 11-13 years old), that cops are not your friends if you're not a victim (for the most part). So, while I understand what you're saying a as a British police officer, your advice does not necessarily resonate with Americans being detained/questioned by law enforcement officers.
Load More Replies...Good article with some very important points everybody should know. I live in Czech Republic and some of the advices could apply here too - especially the "never talk with police" thing.
Police are not here to help you, they are there to pin something on you or someone else. NEVER speak to them other than to give you name. Admit nothing, even if they claim witnesses "It wasn't me" is my motto.... and no, I have no record and shouldn't have to be afraid of them.... but I am.
Get a public defender maybe...after you've been bailed out if applicable..Shelling out $5000 out of the gate for a DUI is just another kick in the face. If you aren't a felon you're part of a system that will treat you like an insignificant #. Public defender will be more personal with the judge than a lawyer will be. The public defender sees the judge every day...You could hire a lawyer the judge doesn't like. Then you're screwed x 2.
I'm white, female and a lot older than I used to be. White Cops used to buy the young and female bit. They still do no matter your race. Guys, they won't buy it from you no matter what, unless your dad is rich.
I remember watching a criminal minds episode where it was a "trend" to tie a noose and hang yourself not long enough so you die but pass out and of course, some kids didn't get down in time and died so 2 of the FBI agents went to the local high school where most of the kids who died went (oh yeah, they recorded it too) to that high school and saying things like "don't do it" and blah blah blah and this emo guy(remember this was sometime between 2005 and 2007 so emo was thriving at the time) and the guy literally ran from the room and basically what I'm saying it like don't run because
Also odd enough,the show Lucifer actually has some good crimes in it it's on netflix
Load More Replies...Oh well, can't ask or expect too much from some people : had my wallet stolen (ID card, drivers licence, bank cards, money, etc ...) on the street. Day after I go to the police head office to ask for a temporary ID document, just in case I need it. After a little explanation why I came to them (normally it's up to town hall to make that, but town hall was closed for holidays) the officer (VERY RELUCTANTLY) decides to help. First question he asks : "ID card !"
You know.....I've been arrested A LOT. Yea I was a f**k am and not much has changed. Every 2 years I manage to do something stupid or find myself in a ridiculous situation that my not be my fault but upon further review I did something to get myself in said situation. Now, I have dealt with some real d**k head cops. I have also dealt with some just by the book cops. And then there is the cool cop who is about to get off his shift and doesn't want to do the paperwork. It's on you to make that determination. If the odds of you getting busted are over 50% without you're cooperation I recommend just cooperating. Tell them where the drugs are and hope for the best. I've had cops let me dump all my s**t down the runoff drain on the side of the road after a DUI. And more than once they just took the goods and let me go. And yea he's getting high at home on my dime but it's better than jail. But if he's a straight up d**k, make him work.
“Not much has changed.” Why, why! You have driven drunk. That puts your and many other lives of innocent men, women, and children at risk. Please, take a look at yourself. YOU CAN STILL CHANGE. It will take time and effort, but you can do it. You can prevent yourself from being the next news story “drunk driver kills single mother of 3.” You can save yourself. You can save others.
Load More Replies...Nah, I've known lots of people (both from my time as a reporter and now working for the courts) who got the cops on them without committing any crime. Never forget that it is illegal for a citizen to lie to police, but part of the training for police to lie to everyone else. You can walk in a saint and be arrested for treason if they decide it's worth the time - they don't care about facts or truth.
Load More Replies...If people that work or have worked in law enforcement or their partners say "Get a lawyer.", I'd rather believe them than some "reality" tv series that's censored by the policeforce. Among all the good cops there are also bad cops and a lawyer can protect you from false allegations or bogus charges like "Walking While Black."
Load More Replies...
217
52