The Police Think You're The Criminal At The Scene (Now What?)

Published on July 25, 2022
Duration: 4:43

This video provides crucial guidance on navigating the immediate aftermath of a self-defense incident when police arrive. It emphasizes de-escalation, cooperating with lawful orders, and protecting your legal rights by not making statements until you've consulted an attorney. The instructor highlights the importance of identifying the true assailant and witnesses to help police establish the facts.

Quick Summary

When police arrive at a self-defense scene, immediately put your firearm down, show your hands, and follow all instructions. Point out the assailant and witnesses, but decline to make a statement until you've consulted an attorney to protect your legal rights in the aftermath.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Police Arrive After Self-Defense
  2. 00:10Gun Giveaway Reminder
  3. 00:26Police Information Limitations
  4. 01:10Taking Control of the Scene
  5. 01:38Being Treated as the Criminal
  6. 01:46What You Should Be Thinking
  7. 01:56Don't Explain, Don't Speak
  8. 02:20Immediate Actions Upon Arrival
  9. 02:33Identifying the Assailant & Witnesses
  10. 02:47Statement After Attorney Consultation
  11. 03:01Protecting Yourself Legally
  12. 03:11Clearing Up Confusion
  13. 03:37Following Instructions & Handcuffing
  14. 03:46Ensuring Safety for All
  15. 03:58Why Police May Not Believe You
  16. 04:09Cooperate with Lawful Orders
  17. 04:21Legal to Draw Your Gun?
  18. 04:36Definition of Lethal Force

Frequently Asked Questions

What should you do immediately when police arrive after a self-defense incident?

When police arrive, prioritize safety by immediately putting your firearm down, showing your hands, and following all their instructions. This helps prevent you from being mistaken for the aggressor and ensures officer safety as they assess the scene.

Should you speak to the police immediately after a self-defense incident?

It's best not to make a statement to the police until you have spoken with your attorney. You can inform them that you will provide a full statement after consulting with legal counsel, while still cooperating with immediate safety directives.

How can you help police understand a self-defense situation?

Once the immediate scene is secure, point out the actual assailant and identify any witnesses present. This helps law enforcement gather accurate information and understand the sequence of events from multiple perspectives.

Why might police initially suspect you after a self-defense incident?

Police often arrive with limited and potentially biased information from dispatchers or initial callers. They are trained to secure the scene and reduce danger, which can lead them to treat everyone present cautiously until the facts are established.

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