The police can’t just make an arrest on a whim. To do so, they need evidence. While evidence can be immediately apparent, this is not always the case. Most of the time, some form of pre-arrest investigation is required.
If you suspect that you may be under criminal investigation, it is important to act quickly. How do you know whether or not you are under investigation by the police?
Telltale signs
One of the first signs that you may be under investigation is if the police contact you or ask you to contact them. For example, they may leave a voicemail on your cell phone asking you to come in and answer some questions. They may even just show up at your door. In these circumstances, it’s important to remember the following:
- You should not answer police questions without first seeking legal guidance.
- You do not have to let the police into your home unless they have a valid search warrant.
The police will often state that the nature of their business with you is innocent, and you are not in any trouble. Nonetheless, many people have found themselves arrested after voluntarily answering questions or allowing law enforcement to enter their property.
Surveillance techniques
Another sign that you are under investigation is if you notice certain surveillance techniques being used. For example, if every time you leave work there is a police car parked outside, you could be under physical surveillance and criminal investigation. Further surveillance techniques include:
- Monitoring social media
- Checking computers and cell phone devices
- GPS tracking
- Monitoring bank accounts and financial activities.
For more invasive surveillance techniques, law enforcement must usually have a valid search warrant.
If you think you are under investigation, the best thing you can do is to seek legal guidance as early as possible.
