How Do You Know If You Are Under Criminal Investigation?

September 30, 2019 Posted in Assault

Have You Committed a Crime? Signs You May Be Under Investigation

You will likely be investigated if you’ve done something that may be considered a crime. Be on the alert because the police might be wiretapping you or observing your actions.

If you associate with people who have been arrested, it’s possible that you may be, too. This is why you should be updated about what’s happening in your circle.

Always Be on the Lookout

Pay closer attention to your surroundings. You may notice people following you. Have your telephone box checked. Consider using counter-surveillance devices—these can detect spying equipment.

If you don’t have dogs, think about getting some. They will alert you if someone’s lurking around your premises. They will also prevent them from breaking into your home and installing bugs.

Ask around. People around you may have heard about an investigation or noticed strange individuals. You can ask some of your friends to stay on the lookout.

Avoid giving out incriminating information online or over the phone. Police may have access to your devices. Be careful of throwing away evidence as well, because they might check your trash.

Tendencies of Authorities

Generally, you will not be told that you are under investigation unless they want to talk to you and ask specific questions. When they do call you, they have probably already gathered data, and they only want to confirm their conclusions.

Police might show up at your home, or you may be invited to talk with a detective. When they’ve managed to corner you, avoid lying. It’s a crime to do so. Just keep quiet and say that you need to consult your lawyer first.

When the police come, they might show a search warrant. Do not let them search if they don’t. You can refuse if they didn’t give a good enough reason for a search.

If you’re a government employee, you may be requested to go to the Office of the Inspector General (OIG), or an OIG agent may talk to you. This may mean you’re being investigated for something. Learn about some ways to deal with the stress if you are under investigation.

Of Letters and Records

You may receive a subpoena or a target letter. This is evidence that you’re under criminal investigation.

If no one has contacted you yet, you could ask a private investigator to check criminal databases. Investigators would have clearances that help them access records not available to the public.

Visit the district attorney’s office to know if you have a pending court case. However, you shouldn’t normally have to do this because they will send you a notice to appear in court.

Call your local police department and ask if someone has filed charges against you. Again, they don’t have to inform you if you are currently being investigated.

If there’s a police report, you may request a copy. This document will tell you details such as what the nature of the case is, when and where it happened, the names of those involved, and the reference number.

The Need For a Defense Lawyer

In summary, you’ll know if you are being investigated for a crime if you pay more attention to what’s happening around you and if you ask help from those who have access to records.

If you’re convinced that you’re under investigation, get a lawyer immediately to avoid hassles and possible incarceration. Gary L. Rohlwing’s law office is one place you could try.