What to Do if You Are the Victim of Police Misconduct

A routine stop escalates in seconds, or an arrest leaves you injured in ways that don't match the official report. In moments like these, most people freeze, unsure how to respond when the people meant to protect them are the ones who caused harm.

Experiencing police misconduct can be shocking, confusing, and deeply upsetting. Whether it involves excessive force, unlawful arrest, or violation of your constitutional rights, knowing what to do immediately afterward can make all the difference in protecting your safety, preserving evidence, and strengthening any legal action you may pursue.

In short: the right response is to prioritize your safety, document everything while it's fresh, preserve physical and video evidence, file a formal complaint, and speak with a civil rights attorney before time limits run out. Below is a step-by-step breakdown of exactly how to do that.

At Falodun Law, we fight for justice on behalf of individuals whose rights have been violated. Here is a step-by-step guide on what to do if you are the victim of police misconduct.

1. Ensure Your Immediate Safety After police misconduct

Your first priority is your health and safety, particularly in cases involving excessive force & police brutality.

• Seek medical care right away if you are injured, no matter how minor the injury may seem. Medical records are crucial pieces of evidence.

• If you are in custody, request medical attention and make sure your request is documented.

2. Write Down Everything You Remember

Details fade quickly, and misconduct cases often turn on small facts. As soon as you are able, write down everything you remember:

• The date, time, and location of the incident.

• The names and badge numbers of the officers involved (or physical descriptions if names/numbers are not visible).

• What led up to the incident and what happened afterward.

• The names and contact information of any witnesses.

Even small details—like the type of patrol car or surveillance cameras in the area—may help your case.

3. Preserve All Evidence

Evidence is the backbone of your claim. Take the following steps:

• Photograph injuries as soon as possible and continue documenting them as they heal.

• Keep copies of medical records, hospital bills, and prescriptions.

• Save clothing or personal items damaged during the incident.

• Secure video evidence—this includes bodycam footage, dashcam footage, or bystander cell phone recordings. If someone filmed the event, ask them to preserve and share the video.

4. File a Complaint

Filing a formal complaint creates a record of the misconduct. Depending on your location:

• In Washington, D.C., complaints can be filed with the Office of Police Complaints (OPC).

• In Maryland, each police department has its own internal affairs division or complaint process.

When filing:

• Be factual, clear, and concise.

• Include your written account and any evidence you have.

• Request a copy or confirmation that your complaint was received.

5. Contact an Experienced Civil Rights Attorney

Police misconduct cases are complex. Departments and officers often have strong legal protections, and it takes a knowledgeable attorney to navigate those challenges. An experienced police misconduct lawyer can:

• Investigate your case thoroughly.

• File requests for bodycam/dashcam footage and internal records.

• Represent you in civil claims for damages (such as medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress).

• Hold the responsible officers and department accountable.

At Falodun Law, we focus on protecting victims of police misconduct and fighting for the justice they deserve. Our team has spent years handling civil rights claims across Maryland and Washington, D.C., giving us firsthand knowledge of how these investigations unfold.

6. Do Not Delay

Strict time limits (known as statutes of limitations) apply to police misconduct cases. If you wait too long, you may lose the right to pursue compensation, no matter how strong your evidence is. The sooner you act, the better your chances of building a strong case.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifies as police misconduct in Maryland? 

Police misconduct includes any officer conduct that violates your constitutional or civil rights, such as excessive force, unlawful arrest, illegal searches, or denial of medical care while in custody.

How soon should I contact a lawyer after an incident? 

As soon as possible. Bodycam footage can be deleted on a routine schedule, and Maryland's statutes of limitations are strict.

Do I need video evidence to have a valid claim? 

No. Claims can also rely on medical records, witness statements, and official reports.

Final Thoughts

Being the victim of police misconduct can leave you feeling powerless, but you are not alone. By taking the right steps—securing medical care, preserving evidence, filing a complaint, and contacting an attorney—you can reclaim your power and seek justice.

At Falodun Law, we are committed to standing up for individuals in Maryland and Washington, D.C. who have had their rights violated by law enforcement.

If you believe you have been the victim of misconduct,

call us today at (301) 289-7737 or visit www.falodunlaw.com for a free consultation.