Hopefully you’ll never experience the shock and trauma that can come with an unexpected police raid, but even when police alert you of their presence and legally enter the premises with a warrant, you can be left feeling violated. Today, we take a closer look at what happens during a police raid of your home, and what you should do in the immediate aftermath of a police search.
My Home Was Raided
These tips may need to be tweaked depending on your exact role in the situation, but they help to convey a general list of tips to keep in mind. For example, if you end up in handcuffs after the raid, taking pictures of the scene may be impossible, but it’s important that you pass these tips along to someone who can. Here’s what you’ll want to do after your home is raided.
1. Document the Scene – If you are not arrested and taken into custody, you’ll want to take as many photos as possible of the scene once police leave. Odds are they will make a complete mess of drawers, clothes and other belongings, and you’ll want documented proof of any property damage they caused.
2. Say Silent – Regardless of whether you are the subject of the raid, or you merely live with someone police wanted to investigate, avoid sharing incriminating information with the police. Due to the nature of the search, people can feel frightened and offer up more information than they should. Aside from giving your name and any other basic information they ask, you should remain silent for the time being.
3. Learn About The Warrant – Find out why police are executing a search warrant on your residence, and ask to see the warrant. The warrant will explain exactly what police can legally search. They may only have permission to search the garage, but they may try to ask for permission to view the whole property. View the warrant and do not give them more than they are granted.
4. Contact a Lawyer – If you or your roommate or your child has been arrested after a home search, you’ll want to get on the phone with a lawyer as soon as possible. Explain to the lawyer why the search took place, what police were looking for, and what happened when they finished their search. In the event someone was taken to jail, the lawyer can work on getting them released as quickly as possible.
If your home has been searched or raided by police, reach out to Avery Appelman and the team at Appelman Law Firm. We’ll look at every aspect of the warrant and its execution to ensure your rights weren’t infringed upon, and we can go to work building a solid defense. For more information, or to talk to a lawyer about your case, give us a call at (952) 224-2277.
