Last updated 2 years ago
A Federal Court Jury in Philadelphia has awarded $685,000 to the wife of a man shot and killed by a Philadelphia police officer. The verdict was entered on March 29,2011 in favor of Raheema Howard, to compensate her for the the loss of her husband Ricky.
Police encountered Ricky Howard and another man struggling over a gun. The officer who fired the fatal shots claimed that Howard pointed the gun at her. However, at trial a witness disputed that fact and the jury concluded that the use of deadly force by the police officer was excessive and in violation of the victims Fourth Amendment rights.
The case was tried by John Rightmyer of the Law Office of Patrick G. Geckle, LLC.
Last updated 2 years ago
One of the worst situations someone could go through is an arrest with police brutality. Police brutality is the use of excessive an unnecessary physical force, assault, or verbal abuse used by law enforcement officials. Any person that works under the authority of a state law enforcement company who violates the civil rights of anyone in the U.S. is liable to pay for any and all damages they cause.
Despite contrary belief, cases of police misconduct often go unreported and never receive attention. Any time a police officer uses brutality or assaults another person, the police officer is violating their duty as a law enforcement official. We depend on law enforcement officials to protect us and defend us. Police officers should never be the aggressors.
Check out the following reasons why you should hire a police brutality lawyer for any police abuse or if you are concerned about police misconduct.
- Law & Trust: Police officers are only allowed to use force in a situation if there is a threat from another person. It is a police officer’s job to protect society and enforce the law. Just like you can be charged for a violent act against another person, police officers can be charged for misconduct. Police misconduct, including false arrest, improper search and seizure, harassment, and racism are illegal. Don’t let the police officers we are supposed to trust break the law.
- Respect: Despite your arresting circumstances, you deserve to be treated correctly. Don’t settle for any police misconduct; contact a police brutality lawyer to regain your respect.
- Interpretation: Police brutality lawyers can carefully inspect each individual case. They will analyze the situation and evidence and tell you whether or not you have a good police brutality case.
At the Law Offices of Patrick Geckle, we are committed to helping anyone who has been a police misconduct victim. Contact us to make sure everyone follows the law.
Last updated 2 years ago
A recent incident in Clairon County in Pennsylvania has lead to a Federal lawsuit filed against a state police officer who tased an unarmed individual leading to his unfortunate death.
Read the full aricle HERE for Patrick Geckle's comments in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Last updated 2 years ago
If you or someone you know has ever been the victim of police misconduct or you ever experience an episode of police brutality, it will be important for you to know how to handle the situation. Police brutality is the use of excessive, unnecessary physical force, assault, or verbal abuse by law enforcement officials. Police misconduct can occur during arrest, false arrest, or improper search and seizure, and involves instances of harassment and racism.
Don’t let the law enforcement officials we trust get away with abuse and brutality. Follow the steps below to help your chances of winning a police brutality case.
- Contact a Lawyer Immediately: For the best chance at winning a police brutality case, always contact a lawyer that specializes in police misconduct. These lawyers will be able to give you advice and tell you whether or not you have a realistic shot at winning your case.
- Pictures: If you have visible injuries, take plenty of pictures. The pictures will be essential in your case later, especially if the case drags on and your injuries have healed.
- Doctor: Police brutality victims with injuries should immediately be treated by a doctor. Remind your doctor to take pictures and document your injuries in your medical file.
- Preserve Evidence: Place your clothes, whether they are torn or have blood on them or not, in a safe, sealed bag. These items could be instrumental in your case. They will serve as evidence and help support your story.
- Witnesses: Get the names, addresses, and phone numbers of all witnesses if possible.
- Don’t Talk to Anyone: Do not make any further statements to the police. Wait for your police brutality lawyer. They will advise you in your next step.
If you’re an unfortunate victim of police brutality, remember to call the Law Offices of Patrick Geckle. We are experience lawyers that specialize in police brutality cases. We focus on our clients and ensure justice is always carried out.
Last updated 2 years ago
Despite contrary belief, it is your right to refuse a police search. You have rights as American citizens to deny police entry into your private property including your home, car, and belongings. Keep this in mind in case an odd situation occurs.
Check out this video to learn how to properly refuse a police search. In this video a police officer confronts a young man about searching his car. The narrator explains what the man should say and how he can avoid the police officer from searching his car.
If you’ve endure any form of police brutality or what you think is police misconduct, contact the Law Offices of Patrick Geckle. We will look at your case and makes sure justice gets served.
