Whenever a law enforcement officer uses more force than is necessary to restrain and control an offender, either verbally or physically, he or she has committed a crime considered police brutality. While police brutality has a long history around the world, in the United States today it is not an acceptable procedure. It is the duty of police officers to keep the peace among the people, but by using violent procedures, both physically and verbally, they are actually doing the exact opposite of what they seek to defend.

As mentioned, police abuse includes the use of unnecessary physical and psychological force against another person. The most common forms of police brutality are

Why does police brutality happen?

Many believe that there are psychological factors that drive police officers to use brutality when dealing with lawbreakers. They state that police officers have developed a sense of entitlement and being “above the law” due to their position and duties in society, which drives them to take unnecessarily forceful actions in the course of their work.

Others believe that this abuse stems from anger or prejudice regarding the fundamental differences between law enforcement officer and citizen. This includes race, age, religion, gender, apparent socioeconomic status, or political stance. When these differences are obviously present, they can prompt the police officer (or policewoman) to take unnecessary action in an effort to contain and punish the offending individual.

A police officer may act too harshly on the citizen in conflict with the law also out of fear. He or she may feel the need to exercise and flaunt her power in order to more easily retrain the citizen or make the citizen more obedient.

What should you do as a victim of police brutality?

It is always unfortunate when a police officer goes outside the limits of his jurisdiction and abuses another being. Incidents of this cruelty often go unreported. If he has been a victim of police brutality, he should report it immediately or find an attorney who can help bring his case to light. This is a problem in America, and steps must be taken to try to eradicate this violation of human rights.

There is a lot of opposition to police brutality here in the United States. The groups take positions against these crimes, claiming that they are “one of the most serious human rights violations” that exist. If you have been a victim of police brutality, they may be able to help you get justice.

Don’t let yourself become a victim of police brutality. Know your rights; know your rights.