Constitutional rights are not effective if you don’t know what they are. We rely on the police to keep us safe and treat us all fairly regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin or religion. On Tuesday, September 13, 2016, Council Member Larry V. Green along with Attorney Jolanda Jones co -sponsored a very informative “Know Your Rights” workshop at the Hiram Clarke Multi Service Center. The workshop was held to help residents understand what rights they do and do not have when interacting with an officer of the law.
“We are constantly working with the police officers in our area to increase effective community policing. I want our residents to know the officers that work in our neighborhoods as well as know their rights if ever faced with interacting with a police officer”, states Council Member Green. “We all recognize the need for effective law enforcement, but we should also understand our own rights and responsibilities”, Green adds.
The workshop included specific cases, videos of police encounters and helpful advice when facing police interaction at your home, in your vehicle and in general. Attorney Jones and Council Member Green concluded the workshop with a question and answer session. Knowing your rights as an individual and practicing lawful behaviors when interacting with police can help an attorney provide you with effective counsel should you ever find yourself in a tough situation.
