Principal Attorney
In recent times, cases involving allegations of excessive force by law enforcement have garnered widespread attention. As a New York attorney committed to upholding justice, I feel it’s crucial to bring attention to the specific nuances of excessive force violations right here in Nassau County. This blog aims to provide a comprehensive overview of instances where law enforcement may have crossed the line, along with essential information for victims regarding their rights and potential legal remedies.
What is Excessive Force?
Excessive force refers to the use of more force than is reasonably necessary to handle a situation. Law enforcement officers are granted certain powers to maintain public safety, but these powers must be wielded responsibly and within the bounds of the law. When an officer exceeds these boundaries, it can lead to serious consequences for the victim and legal repercussions for the officer involved.
Excessive force may involve a range of actions, such as deploying firearms, batons, tasers, restraint techniques, or other means of physical control. Instances of excessive force raise ethical, legal, and human rights considerations, prompting the need for comprehensive investigations to ascertain the justification of law enforcement actions and determine whether they constituted a violation of an individual’s rights.
Nassau County and Cases of Excessive Force
From 2016 through 2021, there were 116 allegations of excessive force. We have handled many such cases, ranging from strip searches to stun grenades, to homicide by Taser and firearms.
Rights of Victims and Potential Legal Remedies
- Right to File a Complaint: Victims of excessive force have the right to file a complaint against the law enforcement officer involved. It’s important to document the incident, gather any available evidence, and promptly file a complaint with the relevant oversight agencies.
- Legal Action for Damages: Victims of excessive force may pursue legal action to seek compensation for damages. This may include medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, and other losses incurred as a result of the incident. An experienced attorney can guide victims through the process of filing a lawsuit against the responsible parties.
- Legal Remedies Under Civil Rights Violations: Excessive force cases often involve potential civil rights violations. Victims can pursue legal remedies under federal laws, such as Section 1983, which allows individuals to seek damages for violations of their constitutional rights by government officials.
In Nassau County, as elsewhere, the accountability of law enforcement is paramount to maintaining public trust and ensuring justice.
The Attorneys at Civardi & Obiol Help Those in New York Who Have Been the Victim of Excessive Force
If you or a loved one has been a victim of excessive force, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the potential legal remedies available to you. A knowledgeable and experienced civil rights attorney can advocate for justice and to hold those responsible for excessive force violations accountable for their actions.
At Civardi & Obiol, our qualified New York civil rights attorneys will help to walk you through the process every step of the way. We will fight for your rights. To learn more or schedule a free consultation, contact us today!