Profiling by police is unconstitutional, and can result in harassment and abuse of power by officers.
Profiling is a complex subject, and we’re not talking about criminal profiling here. Criminal profiling is where a professional profiler tries to narrow down who police are looking for (the suspect) by analyzing a crime and trying to figure out the type of person who committed it. We’re talking about police profiling, which is completely different, and totally unconstitutional.
Police profiling refers to an officer targeting a specific individual or groups based on their appearance or other impermissible profiles. For example, pulling someone over simply because of the color of their skin, or assuming someone is guilty of a crime because they dress a certain way. Unfair profiling practices can result in people being harrassed, and sometimes even arrested, simply because of the way they look or some similar reason.
Is profiling the same as responding to ‘suspicious behavior’?
When an officer pulls someone over because of the type of car they’re driving makes them “look like a gang member”, that’s profiling. When an officer pulls someone over because they were engaging in suspicious behavior while driving, that’s completely different. Police in Michigan are trained to notice and respond to suspicious behavior.
Suspicious behavior is sometimes difficult to define, but it is one of those things that most people say they “know it when they see it.” For example, if something is out of place or out of character for someone, is would count as suspicious. Suspicious behavior is often nervous, secretive or fearful behaviors from someone who doesn’t seem to have any reason for feeling those things.
What happens when the police profile you unfairly?
When the police profile you unfairly, this means they’re making assumptions about you based on your appearance. What you look like, what you’re wearing, who you’re hanging out with, and what kind of car you drive can all be reasons for police profiling. When a police officer in Michigan profiles someone, it means they’re assuming that person might be guilty of something without having any proof to support that assumption.
This sometimes results in people being harassed by the police. Harassment comes in the form of unnecessary searches, being pulled pulled over for no reason, groundless accusations, repeated questioning without cause, and being arrested when there is no proof that you broke the law.
What can you do when you’ve been unfairly profiled by Michigan police?
If you believe you’ve been unfairly targeted by law enforcement in Michigan, and were profiled by an officer, there are things you can do. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Know your rights!
- Document any evidence you have to support your claim, and make multiple copies
- Report any police abuses to the police, and file a complaint. (It is always a good idea to report the issue a second time, just in case your first complaint was ‘lost’)
Also, remember that a good defense attorney makes a world of difference! If Michigan police are treating you unfairly, or have violated your rights, that may be grounds for having your charges dismissed. Talk to one of the experienced criminal defense attorneys at The Kronzek Firm today, and find out how we can help protect your rights. We are available 24/7 at 866 766 5245 (866 7No Jail)