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Why It’s Difficult to Convict a Police Officer

There are at least 1,000 fatal shootings in the United States every year. Since 2005, the number of police officers that have actually been convicted of murder is paltry – just seven.

Of the 139 agents involved, 44 were convicted. Some are serving life while others have been released with no prison time. It’s complex. And as an excessive police force attorney San Bernardino, here’s why it has been historically difficult to convict officers.

 1. Not enough officers

There is a chronic shortage of law officers in San Bernardino County (SBC). As the largest geographical county in the U.S., the SBC Sheriff’s Department serves more than 2.1 million people with just 3,600 agents. For this reason, the department fights hard against one of its agents being convicted and removed from service.

2. Jury sentiments

When a case goes to trial and there’s a jury, the jury often sympathizes with the law agent, especially in cases involving shootings. Aware of the danger officers find themselves in on a daily basis, those serving on the jury struggle to convict a police officer of murder when the officer claims to have been acting in self-defense and was fearful for their life.

3. Qualified immunity

It’s no secret that law enforcement agents in the U.S. are tried and judged under a different standard compared to civilians. However, no one is above the law. This is why as an excessive police force attorney San Bernardino; it is my role to present the facts and evidence so the jury sees beyond the badge and delivers justice.

Get a free case evaluation

If you’re a victim of an excessive police force in San Bernardino, there is help. Contact Steering Law Firm for a free case evaluation today.

Disclaimer: This blog post does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with an attorney for case-specific questions.


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