NCJ Number
162330
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 65 Issue: 2/3 Dated: (February/March 1996) Pages: 34-39
Date Published
1996
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article suggests ways that police officers facing civil litigation can prepare constructively for trial and contribute positively toward their defense.
Abstract
Officers must recognize that the role of police-defendant is much different than that of police-witness. The threat of personal risk, the effect of strong attitudes, and the value of emotional expression during testimony are dramatically altered. Officers who project an attitude of hostility, arrogance, indifference, or other negative dispositions while testifying as police-defendants cause irreversible damage to the defense. While maintaining a professional image in court is important for police-defendants, they must also show to the jury genuine, human qualities. A submissive demeanor, body language appropriate to the verbal message being conveyed, addressing the jury not attorneys, direct eye contact with jury members, and controlled facial expressions that reflect genuine feelings all can contribute meaningfully to the defense of an officer on trial. Endnote