The Police Want to Question Me About a Rape: What Should I Do?
Published: Dec 22, 2021 in Sex CrimesYou shouldn’t answer their questions. The risks of talking to the police far outweigh the possible benefits. The officer, you, or both of you could make mistakes, and you could be arrested for a crime you didn’t commit.
The fact that you’re innocent doesn’t mean you should freely answer the officer’s questions. Talking to the police, especially if you agree to speak at a police station and the subject is as serious as a possible rape charge, will put you under a lot of stress. You could mistakenly say things that implicate you.
Why Shouldn’t I Talk to the Police?
You may fear not answering questions or not going to a police station makes you look guilty; in fact, it shows you know your rights. A police officer’s actions toward you must be based on evidence. You can’t be detained or arrested based on what an officer thinks or your refusal to answer questions or go to a police station.
You may believe if you just tell your side of the story, then the issue will be over, and you’ll put it behind you. It may not be that simple.
- You don’t know what the officer knows. They may have been told lies by others, so the officer may think you’re involved in some way.
- Officers have biases and presumptions when they talk to people. Their assumptions, along with your statements, may make you appear guilty.
You may hope the officer will tell you what they know, so you’ll be better able to answer questions. This won’t happen. You may hear some of what the officer has found, but he’s not there to help you. The officer may lie to you to test what you know, judge whether you’re telling the truth, or manipulate you into saying something incriminating.
What Should I Do If the Police Want Me to Answer Questions?
If officers come to your home (or even worse, where you work) and say they have questions for you, ask them why. After they tell you, say you need to speak with your lawyer first. Then you can schedule a time and place to meet.
Be calm and friendly. Speak professionally to the officer. You can even apologize because this may take some time, but be firm. Get the officer’s business card so you know their name and contact information.
Call our office next. We may schedule a meeting to discuss what’s going on and tell you whether it’s a good idea to speak with the police. If you agree to answer questions with our help, we’ll be present to advise you during the interviews. If a question is improper or it’s best you not answer, we’ll let you know. We can also suggest the best ways to respond to questions.
The fact your lawyer is involved shouldn’t be a big deal. Handling cases with criminal defense attorneys involved is part of their job.
You have constitutional rights not to incriminate yourself and to have an attorney present when police question you. These rights don’t do you any good if you don’t use them.
Get Help From a Sexual Assault Lawyer in Houston
If the police contact you or you’re arrested, protect yourself and your future by contacting The Law Office of Ned Barnett at 713-222-6767 or through our online form. You have the right to an attorney during a criminal investigation, and you should invoke this right as soon as you can.