In a trial the credibility and integrity of a witness is everything. This is especially true in a prosecutor’s case that relies solely on the testimony of an officer. Over the past weeks, months and years, the credibility of Seattle Police officers has come into question. This is attributable to cases like the one filed on Wednesday by a 19 year old man who has alleged that that he was “shoved, threatened and menaced” by the Seattle Police during an investigation that had nothing to do with him. He claims that his civil rights were violated by the Seattle Police, and that an officer even threatened him in a South Precinct holding cell.
The suit stems from a high profile incident in August in which a video that was later posted on You Tube showed the officer repeatedly shoving the 19 year old during a heated confrontation that erupted while police were investigating a pellet-gun shooting. The holding cell incident, recorded on in-house video, allegedly shows the officer clenching his fist and making a punching motion towards the 19 year old.
Ultimately, the Seattle City Prosecutor’s Office declined to file charges because it found that the police botched the case and the ensuing investigation due to cultural and investigative failures; no criminal charges were brought against the 19 year old.
Often prosecutors’ cases rely on officer credibility and integrity to “sew-up” a conviction. When charged with a crime it is important to investigate the background of the witnesses who will be testifying on behalf of the government. A good Seattle criminal defense attorney understands this very fact, and knows the process of going about uncovering credibility and integrity issues.
If you or a loved one is charged with a criminal offense in Washington State, it is imperative that you seek the assistance of a qualified and reputable Seattle criminal defense attorney. The Seattle criminal attorneys that make up the criminal defense team of SQ Attorneys are highly qualified and reputable Seattle criminal defense lawyers that are dedicated to providing top notch, aggressive representation for those arrested for crime all across Western Washington and the Greater Puget Sound region. The team creates success by working with law enforcement and the prosecuting attorney’s office to ensure that all facts and circumstances related to the criminal allegations are considered in creating the fairest, most equitable and just resolution possible in light of all the surrounding circumstances of the given case.