View Full Version : Unfair Law
earl237
Nov 26, 2009, 12:32 PM
One very unfair law that I heard about is that although it is illegal to lie to a police officer, it is perfectly legal for a police officer to lie to someone to get them to confess to something, even if they did nothing wrong. Even if someone is wrongfully convicted, they cannot sue the police for being lied to and tricked into confessing. This law is very wrong and I think it should be changed. Any ideas on how to raise awarness about this issue?
ScottGem
Nov 26, 2009, 02:04 PM
First, who ever told you that its illegal to lie to a police officer. The only thing that would be illegal about that is if the lie prevented a police officer from arresting someone. And even then its unlikely to be prosecuted unless the perp committed another crime.
For example: if one is questioned about the whereabouts of a person and they claim they don't know where they are, they could be prosecuted for obstruction of justice, conspiracy to commit a crime or aiding and abetting. But they can't be prosecuted for lying except when under oath.
As to police lying to someone to get them to confess, if they have nothing to confess to, then there is no issue. And police can't lie with impunity. If they are caught lying, its possible the confession may be thrown out or evidence deemed inadmissible, etc.
But, frankly, I see nothing wrong in the police using prevarication to get evidence for a conviction. As long as that is not the sole basis of the conviction, i.e. there is other evidence to support a conviction.
Fr_Chuck
Nov 26, 2009, 07:18 PM
Depending on the state, it is illegal to lie about your NAME, Birthdate, and some places social security number.
Beyond that, almost all crimials always lie, are you guility, NO,
What are you doing, nothing and so on. In fact most lie in court when they testify
Raven4565
Dec 3, 2009, 01:39 AM
Honestly your told "you have a right to remain silent and anything you say can be used against you blah blah" for a reason.
Even if innocent, it's pretty obvious that if the police are questioning you it's in your interest not to say a word.