The police must use force in some instances in order to keep themselves and the public safe from harm. However, police brutality or the use of excessive force is absolutely illegal, even if the force is used against someone who has committed a crime or someone who is suspected of committing a crime. Likewise, the use of excessive force by a security guard or bouncer is also unlawful. If you have fallen victim of police brutality or someone has used excessive force against you, you may want to consult with a Las Vegas excessive force attorney from De Castroverde Law Group to discuss your legal options.

Specifically, the use of excessive force by law enforcement during the arrest of a suspect violates the Fourth Amendment of the Constitution and can result in civil lawsuits against both the officer and the police department or municipality. If you or a loved one has been injured during an arrest or while in police custody, you may be owed compensation for damages.

To learn more about your case, or to speak to a lawyer with experience handling excessive force cases in Las Vegas, please call De Castroverde Law Group today.

Who Could Be Guilty of Excessive Force in Las Vegas?

While many people think that only law enforcement officers can be brought to court for using excessive force, a Las Vegas excessive force attorney knows that is not the case. If you were injured by any person who used excessive force against you, you could collect compensation from that party or that party’s employer. For example, injury victims in the past have filed and won excessive force claims involving:

• Law enforcement offices/police officers.
• Casino security guards.
• Hotel security guards.
• Injuries from bar or nightclub bouncers.

Examples of Excessive Force

“Excessive force” does not have a concrete legal definition. Instead, it is described simply as force that is greater than reasonable and prudent under the circumstances. Excessive force could be used during police questioning, police searches, or arrests. It could also be used at police departments, courthouses, or jails. In addition, security guards or bouncers could use excessive force while removing a patron.

Excessive force in Las Vegas can take a number of different forms, depending on the circumstances of the incident, including:

• Punching and hitting.
• Kicking.
• Choking or strangling.
• Spitting.
• Use of abusive language, racial slurs, or epithets.
• Improper use of pepper spray.
• Improper use of a taser or stun gun.
• Improper use of a baton or flashlight.
• Improper use of restraints, such as tight handcuffs.
• Improper use of a gun.
• Dog bites.
• Unnecessary use of deadly force.

It is important to understand that excessive force and police brutality depend heavily on the circumstances in Las Vegas. In some instances, using a baton on a suspect is reasonable and prudent, such as if the person is violent and threatening the health and safety of the police officer. However, if a baton is used while the suspect is handcuffed, or out of anger, the police officer could be found guilty of excessive force.

Whether or not the injured victim is guilty of the crime he or she was arrested for often has little or nothing to do with their excessive force injury claim.

Tell a Nevada Attorney About Your Experience With Excessive Force

If you have suffered physical or emotional trauma due to excessive force, the responsible parties should compensate you for damages. We can help. Even if you are not sure if you were the victim of excessive force, talking to a knowledgeable Las Vegas personal injury lawyer can help you understand your case, Nevada law, and your options for legal action. We are dedicated to assisting those who have been harmed by excessive force and are here to fight at your side. To learn more about our services, or to request a confidential consultation, please contact us today.