Since that fateful day when George Floyd was brutally murdered by a Minneapolis police officer, the debate regarding the bystanders’ power and powerlessness both has been aflame. If it weren't for a witness who filmed the entire incident, the case would have probably never seen the light of the day. Therefore, as the world came forward in support and agitation against the racial discrimination and increased incidents of police misconduct, brutality lawyers in Brooklyn take a stand to advise witnesses and how to react.
Being a victim of police misconduct can be unimaginable. But, if you are a bystander, the feeling of powerlessness can be crippling as there seems to be nothing one can do. Fortunately, there are some ways that you can be of help to a victim of police brutality.
According to expert police misconduct attorneys in New York, a citizen can legally make an arrest. Hence, can also intervene to stop a police officer from harming a fellow citizen. However, it may not always be safe. So, you can do the following things in your power to fight against the abuse of power by police personnel.
- Maintain a safe distance and record what is happening. The urge to intervene and save a life can overpower anyone. However, you may be arrested for doing so and might even be killed if you are a person of color. Therefore, the best thing to do is keep a safe distance pull out your phone, and fill the entire incident. Most importantly, do not let anyone tell you that you can't use your rights of recording a public incident. In fact, narrate what happens simultaneously as it can benefit the victim’s case in front of a jury.
- Details matter. As you record or narrate the incident, try to focus on the details like the arresting officer’s name or badge number, etc. Even if you are at a distance, try to note the description of the offender if you are comfortable as this may be vital in proving your stand in front of a jury.
- Call the police on a police officer. Yes, this may sound absurd, but not all police officers are the same. Hence, call another officer if you witness a police officer abusing his or her power. So, call 911 dispatch and report the incident immediately as this can help dissipate the situation and save the victim’s life.
- Wait before you post the video. Your instinct may be to live stream the whole incident to the world but it may not be safe for you as you may bear the brunt of the whole world for recording the incident instead of helping the victim. So, to avoid being subjected to cyber harassment and trolling like the minor who filmed the George Floyd incident faced, take the video to the victim’s attorney as substantial evidence rather than sharing it with the world instantly.
Therefore, the power of a witness may seem cloaked in the heat of the incident. However, you can still be of help to a victim if you remain calm. So, if you ever witness any such incident, whether it is against a stranger or someone you know, take the information to Cohen & Fitch LLP to help the victim get the justice they deserve. Contact our team to know about the legal proceedings of filing a report against police brutality.
