Law enforcement around the country are being put under a microscope as more information comes out about deaths that occur during police interactions and custody. From individuals who are killed while police attempt to make an arrest to those who have been killed while held in jail, the U.S. has witnessed a number of controversial incidents. Ohio is no exception. In 2014, there were 44 confirmed arrest-related deaths (ARD) in the state. While some fatalities occur due to the decedent’s actions, it is clear that there is room for improvement in how police handle volatile and escalating situations.
If you believe you were mistreated by the police during a stop, arrest, or while you were in custody, reach out to Cincinnati criminal defense attorney Brad Groene of Luftman, Heck & Associates right away. Attorney Groene has years of experience helping individuals treated improperly by the police defend against criminal charges.
Call him today at (513) 338-1890 or go online to schedule a consultation.
Arrest-Related Deaths in Ohio
In 2014, there were 44 confirmed arrest-related deaths in Ohio. These fatalities included 42 men and two women. Of the men, 57 percent were white, 39 percent were black, and 4 percent were another race. Of the women, one was white and one was black. The average age of a decedent was 36.6 years old.
The cause of these deaths were predominately firearm discharge by the police or others. However, some fatalities were related to Tasers, stop sticks, tear gas, and bean bags being used during the incidents. In total, 28 of the deaths were ruled a homicide by law enforcement, 13 were the result of a suicide, and three were ruled an accident. According to the ARD information, 29 of the decedents displayed a weapon during the incident that resulted in their deaths and 17 involved an attempt to harm or harming others.
The ARD also keeps track of why incidents were initiated. For the 2014 arrest-related deaths, 22 were the result of a civilian’s request due to suspicious or criminal activity. Six were due to a traffic or vehicle stops, five were based on an issued warrant, three were the result of a civilian’s request for a welfare check or medical assistance, one was from a routine patrol, and seven are listed as other.
How Arrest-Related Deaths Are Counted
Arrest-related deaths include fatalities resulting from any interactions with local or state law enforcement. These can include a death that occurs:
- Shortly after law enforcement detain an individual
- During an arrest or attempt to make an arrest
- After law enforcement has physical custody of the person under arrest, including at the scene of an alleged crime, during transportation, and at a law enforcement facility but before the individual is booked in jail
- Without any direct action taken by law enforcement personnel, including accidents, intoxication from drugs or alcohol, suicide, and medical emergencies
These fatalities may be the result of police action, but also occur due to the decedent’s actions like suicide, accidents, and medical conditions or complications.
There are also deaths that can occur in relation to law enforcement involvement that are not included in Ohio’s arrest-related death statistics. These include deaths:
- Of bystanders, hostages or police officers
- That occur inside a jail or long-term holding facility
- By vehicular pursuit without direct police action such as trying to stop the vehicle in some way
- By federal law enforcement
- Of criminal suspects without direct police contact
Were You Subjected to Police Violence?
If you were involved in a violent encounter with police and ultimately charged with a crime, an attorney may be able to gather evidence of police misconduct that can be used as part of your legal defense. Police misconduct can include both intentional and negligent acts that result in brutality, unlawful detainment, and unlawful arrests. Brad Groene of Luftman, Heck & Associates can explain what actions entail police misconduct and what your legal options may be in regard to the criminal charges against you.
Contact a Cincinnati Criminal Defense Attorney Today
The best way to move forward after a serious police incident is to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney like Brad Groene. A skilled lawyer can objectively analyze your situation and provide you with a look at the best and worst possible outcomes. Once you understand your rights, your attorney can help you make decisions regarding how to move forward with your case.
For more information, contact Luftman, Heck & Associates at (513) 338-1890.
