FALSE ARREST

GILBERTSON INVESTIGATIONS is comprised of police and law enforcement experts who consult with lawyers nationwide on use of force, false arrest, criminal defense, and self defense cases.  Our consultants provide attorneys with objective analysis, insightful reports, informed depositions, and convincing trial testimony. 

CASEWORK: Much of our casework involves claims of false arrest. However, our experts carefully review every case before accepting or declining work. We are also available to consult with attorneys defending police officers accused of false arrest.

FALSE ARREST: A false arrest is an extremely serious matter.  A false arrest can impact a person’s personal life and career forever, and sometimes results in injury or death. Police are supposedly required to master the definitions and applications of Reasonable Suspicion and Probable Cause during their academy training.  Reasonable Suspicion is required to stop, detain, identify, and investigate someone for a crime. Probable Cause is required to search, seize, and arrest someone for a crime.

However, many officers never receive adequate training and education in the definitions and applications of Reasonable Suspicion and Probable Cause, or simply disregard their training later.  Furthermore, many officers hold no college degrees in criminal justice. As criminal justice is complex and always evolving in our courts and state legislatures, too many officers make false arrests.

​While most police officers are honorable men and women who have dedicated their lives to public service, some are not. Every agency has marginal officers.  These officers are not above the law. If your client has been victimized by false arrest call  (360) 237-4247. Gilbertson Investigations partners with attorneys to achieve positive outcomes for their clients. The truth begins here. We can help.

Reasonable Suspicion: A belief or perception, based upon direct observation of guilt-laden facts or special knowledge, that criminal activity is or may be afoot. Reasonable Suspicion is required to stop, identify, detain and investigate criminal suspects.

Probable Cause: Those sets of facts or circumstances that would lead a reasonable and prudent person to believe a crime has been committed, or is about to be committed. It is more than mere suspicion, but less than absolute certainty.​​ Probable Cause is required to search, seize, and arrest suspects.