Responding to a False Criminal Charge - Part 1

 Posted on September 09, 2022 in Criminal Law

As much as we would like to think that only guilty people get arrested and wind up charged with a crime, this is very much not the case. Every year, a significant number of innocent people find themselves having to plead “not guilty” at arraignment because they really did not commit the crime they are charged with - at least not knowingly. This can be a terrifying situation to be in. We have all seen documentaries about people who spent decades in prison only to be exonerated. Of course, most false charges are far less serious than homicide. Domestic violence, theft, and drug possession are very common crimes that people in Illinois must fend off erroneous accusations. If you have found yourself charged with a crime that you did not commit, it is critical that you find a tough criminal defense attorney to protect your freedom and reputation. 

Why do These False Arrests Happen?

The decision to arrest is typically made on the spot by police officers, who are human and make mistakes. Often, innocent people are arrested simply because the police walked into a situation they did not understand. Common reasons that people get charged with crimes they did not commit include: 

• False accusations - This is very common in domestic violence and assault cases. 

• Mistaken identity - You happen to look like the actual suspect. 

• Accidental possession - You did not realize that your questionable cousin dropped a questionable pill on the floor of your car. 

Addressing the Accusation in Your Personal Life

People facing false charges are often chomping at the bit to get out there and clear their name. One of the first things it may occur to you to do is to take to social media and try to “prove” your innocence. This can backfire with disastrous results. If one single detail you post does not check out - even if it is something minor and not really relevant to the offense charged - you could end up looking more guilty. 

There is also the potential that you will accomplish nothing but creating publicity around your case. Posts like these can go viral very quickly - all it takes is for a few people to share your post, and suddenly, you are the talk of the town. 

However, odds are some people you know will find out anyway - specifically, your school or employer. You may face things like temporary suspension or a school hearing. Still, it is best to avoid discussing the details of your case. All you need to say is that you are not guilty and you have a lawyer. This is a good policy in general unless your attorney tells you otherwise. 

Call an Illinois Criminal Defense Attorney

Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law takes protecting genuinely innocent people against false criminal charges incredibly seriously. Our Arlington Heights criminal defense attorney will fight tooth and nail to clear your name. Call 847-253-3400 to begin with a free consultation. 

Source: 

https://www.asanet.org/social-media-criminal-evidence-new-possibilities-problems