Few people understand the trials and dangers you go through as a police officer on a daily basis. You put your life on the line every time you don the uniform in the name of protecting your community. But when you make a mistake, like the thousands that are made among citizens every day, your world can quickly come crumbling down around you.
The story of a Las Vegas Police officer charged with a crime is an example of how this can happen. The officer was pursuing a suspect who was under the influence of methamphetamines and was reportedly attempting to carjack a pickup truck. After a brief foot chase, the officer caught up to the suspect and attempted to subdue him. The suspect allegedly did not obey the officer’s commands and during a physical struggle, the officer used a chokehold.
The suspect later passed away and medical records reveal that he suffered from an enlarged heart. Ingesting meth probably did not help his condition, but authorities point to the use of an unauthorized chokehold as the contributing factor to the suspect’s death. Because of this, the officer has been charged with several felonies, including involuntary manslaughter and oppression under the color of office.
Like other defendants in the legal system, police officers are entitled to the same protections and defenses. As such, an officer charged with a felony can benefit from the counsel of an experienced criminal defense attorney. If you have been charged with a crime for on duty actions or off duty conduct, we invite you to contact us.
The preceding is not legal advice.
