Can I Receive Compensation For Police Brutality In South Carolina?

The number of negative stories in the media regarding police brutality may be very demotivating for anyone hoping for justice in such a case. With everything that we hear, it’s easy to forget or be completely unaware that every citizen actually has unconditional constitutional rights protecting them from police brutality. 

Police officers are required to follow a certain set of standards when going about their job. If they step outside these boundaries, they can be held accountable in various ways. If you feel like you were brutalized by the police, whether you committed a crime or not, you may be entitled to compensation under the law. Before you decide to take this on by yourself, consider contacting an experienced South Carolina police brutality lawyer to walk you through the process and maximize your chances of success. 

Is it hard to sue a cop in South Carolina? 

It’s difficult to sue a cop in any state, as police departments are generally well-funded, powerful entities that have virtually endless resources to defend themselves. They are never quick to go down easily, and will often defend their actions to the bitter end. 

In certain scenarios, if your case is strong enough, the police may opt out of committing to a lawsuit and instead give you a settlement. 

Recently, 31-year old Jamal Sutherland was tragically killed in his prison cell after being transferred from a mental facility to the county jail. The investigation found without a doubt that deputy sheriffs had needlessly caused the death by using pepper spray and tasers. Sutherland had repeatedly said “I can’t breathe,” before passing. The autopsy reported that Sutherland had died “as a result of excited state with pharmacotherapeutic effect during subdual process.”

Ultimately, this case never went to court, and Sutherland’s family came away with a $10,000,000 settlement after a unanimous vote from the Charleston County Council. Sutherland’s case is an example of how with the right lawyers and a strong case, victims of police brutality can be made whole in a big way. 

What laws protect me from police brutality in South Carolina? 

The United States Constitution is the main legislation to keep in mind when it comes to police brutality. Under the fourth, fifth, and eighth amendments, every citizen is protected from police misconduct. Police officers need probable cause to search your premises or to arrest you, and once arrested, whether guilty or not, they have to abide by a set of ethical standards. Everyone has a right to be free from “cruel and unusual punishment,” and you may require an experienced lawyer to help define that in front of the courts. 

Are you looking for compensation after a police brutality incident in South Carolina? 

Connect with a qualified South Carolina police brutality attorney today. Obtaining justice and compensation may not be as difficult as you think.