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Recently, there have been several different instances of police misconduct in Las Vegas. Police misconduct could essentially occur anywhere, and in the event you have found yourself a victim of police misconduct, you have the right to file a lawsuit for any physical injuries or emotional trauma that you may have suffered.

Have you Faced Police Misconduct in Las Vegas?

If you believe you have been a victim of police misconduct in Las Vegas, it is important to understand your legal rights. Seeking legal counsel can help you determine if you have a case and what compensation you may be entitled to. Our experienced attorneys can review your claim confidentially and guide you through the legal process. Contact us to learn more about your options.

Here are some notable cases of police misconduct reported in Las Vegas:

In 2017, Las Vegas police officer Kenneth Lopera was charged with involuntary manslaughter and oppression under color of office after he placed Tashii Brown, an unarmed man, in a chokehold and repeatedly shocked him with a stun gun. Brown passed away due to asphyxiation. Video footage of the incident sparked nationwide outrage. Despite the charges, Lopera was not convicted, as a grand jury declined to indict him. This case highlighted concerns over police training, use of force, and accountability within the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD).

In 2015, Las Vegas Police officer Jacquar Roston was charged with sexual assault. A woman had accused him of raping her while he was on the job. When the officer was then charged with rape, he pleaded guilty. This then sparked the need for training and monitoring police officers while on duty and off duty.

In 2013, Las Vegas Police Officer Derek Colling was fired from the Las Vegas Police Department for beating a man in 2015. The officer had a history of being involved in several different types of shootings and altercations. The department decided to fire him after the complaints of all these different occurrences. This then sparked outrage in the community and the need for more strict enforcement and police training.

In 2011, Las Vegas police officer Jesus Arevalo shot a man who was unarmed. the man was also determined to be incompetent since he was suffering from mental health problems. The officer was later fired from his position.

In 2007, multiple Las Vegas police officers were charged and convicted for violating federal civil rights for beating a man who was not armed. The man was initially pulled over for a simple traffic violation, but the court determined that the officers escalated it and instead beat the man without any right to.

Police misconduct is not an isolated issue in Las Vegas. According to a 2022 report from the Nevada ACLU, over 250 complaints of excessive force were filed against the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) over the past five years. However, only a small percentage resulted in disciplinary action. Research from The Washington Post highlights that nationwide, fewer than 2% of officers involved in excessive force cases face criminal charges.

Many victims of police misconduct hesitate to come forward due to fear of retaliation or lack of trust in law enforcement. A 2021 Pew Research study found that only 39% of Americans believe police misconduct is properly investigated. This underscores the importance of seeking legal representation to ensure victims receive justice and protection under the law.

This is where our Las Vegas attorneys step in. If you believe that you have been a victim of Las Vegas Police misconduct, give us a call to schedule your no-risk and confidential consultation.

What Are Some Examples Of Police Misconduct?

Police misconduct could result in several different types of physical injuries and could involve several different parties. Some examples of police misconduct are stated below. Not many victims of police misconduct even understand that what they have faced was police misconduct and that they have the right to file a lawsuit.

  • Use of excessive force: When police officers use unreasonable excessive force during an arrest, it could result in permanent physical injuries, such as bruises, broken bones, and head injuries. These types of injuries may result in thousands of dollars in medical bills, leaving the victim facing emotional trauma.
  • Racial profiling: Unfortunately, there have been several circumstances where police officers target a specific race or ethnicity. Based on this, there are more likely to use excessive force on a specific race or ethnicity, which could result in unjust treatment.
  • Corruption: Police officers may engage in corruption, such as taking bribes from members of the community in order to then use excessive force on a specific group or  individual.
  • Sexual misconduct: Police officers may harass other members of the community, which could not only result in physical injuries but take a psychological toll on the victim.
  • Misuse of power: Police officers may misuse their power, use excessive force, or take part in unnecessary searches and seizures that are not allowed.

Above are just some examples of instances of police misconduct. There are several other circumstances where police officers have not followed the rules and regulations initiated by the Las Vegas Police Department and by federal rules and regulations. Regardless of the type of police misconduct, almost all types of police misconduct result in physical injuries and emotional trauma. None of the above instances are easy on a victim and could leave them with a traumatic experience that may impact their sleep and cause various other health problems.

Las Vegas Police Regulations

several different types of rules and regulations determine exactly how the Las Vegas Police Department must act in the case of an encounter. Some examples of rules and regulations that police officers must follow include:

  • Fourth Amendment: The Fourth Amendment is one of the most important amendments to the United States Constitution and guarantees that all citizens are free from unreasonable searches and seizures done on behalf of the police department. For example, this law governs when police officers can initiate an arrest.
  • Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS): The Nevada Revised Statutes are very important in determining whether Las Vegas police officers have engaged in any type of police misconduct. The statutes go into detail as to what type of force police officers could use, along with making it illegal to make a false arrest and to racially profile.
  • Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: This Act focuses on discrimination and creates the protected classes of race, color, or national origin.
  • 42 U.S.C. § 1983: This federal law allows individuals to bring lawsuits against government officials, including Las Vegas police officers, in the event that their rights have been violated.

These are just a few examples of the laws that regulate police misconduct in Las Vegas. It is important to hold law enforcement officers accountable for their actions and to work towards reforming the criminal justice system to prevent future instances of police misconduct.

Although there are several regulations in place, police misconduct and brutality are still bound to occur. If you have been a victim of any of the above circumstances, make sure that you have an attorney that will represent you. You should not be afraid to stand up for your rights.

Understanding Your Legal Rights if You Are a Victim of Police Misconduct

  • Filing a Complaint: Victims of police misconduct can file a complaint with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department’s Internal Affairs Bureau (IAB) or with the Nevada Attorney General’s Office.
  • Filing a Civil Lawsuit: Under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, individuals can sue for constitutional violations, including excessive force, false arrests, and racial discrimination.
  • Proving Misconduct in Court: A successful lawsuit requires strong evidence, such as:
    • Video or photographic proof of misconduct
    • Eyewitness statements
    • Medical reports detailing injuries
    • Official police reports

Victims should act quickly, as legal claims often have strict deadlines, known as statutes of limitations. In Nevada, most civil rights claims against police officers must be filed within two years of the incident.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I experience police misconduct in Las Vegas?

If you experience police misconduct, document the incident immediately by gathering video evidence, witness statements, and medical reports if applicable. File a complaint with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department’s Internal Affairs Bureau or the Nevada Attorney General’s Office. Consider consulting a civil rights attorney to understand your legal options and pursue justice.

Can I sue a police officer for misconduct in Las Vegas?

Yes, you can file a lawsuit under 42 U.S.C. § 1983 if your constitutional rights were violated by a police officer. Victims can seek compensation for damages, including medical expenses, emotional distress, and lost wages. A civil rights attorney can help determine if your case qualifies for legal action.

How long do I have to file a police misconduct claim in Nevada?

In Nevada, the statute of limitations for civil rights claims against police officers is typically two years from the date of the incident. If you miss this deadline, you may lose the right to seek compensation. It’s important to act quickly and consult an attorney to ensure your claim is filed on time.

What evidence is needed to prove police misconduct?

Strong evidence can include body camera footage, dashcam recordings, eyewitness statements, medical reports, and expert testimony. Documentation of injuries, excessive force, or racial profiling can help strengthen a case. A lawyer can guide you in collecting and presenting the necessary evidence for a successful claim.

Do all police misconduct cases result in disciplinary action or charges?

No, not all police misconduct cases lead to criminal charges or officer discipline, as internal investigations often favor law enforcement. Studies show that only a small percentage of officers face consequences despite misconduct complaints. However, filing a lawsuit can still hold officers accountable and seek justice for victims.

Contact Our Las Vegas Police Misconduct Attorneys – Call Today

Our Heidari Law Group attorneys are experienced in litigating cases that involve all types of police misconduct like excessive force, false arrest, racial profiling, and sexual assault. We believe that no person should have to go through this and work to hold police officers and departments accountable for their actions.

If you believe you have been a victim of police misconduct, book a consultation with our Las Vegas police misconduct lawyers.

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