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September 24, 2024

Facts About Police Brutality in California

Written by Pointer & Buelna, LLP. Lawyers For The People, reviewed by Adanté Pointer

While California law enforcement officers are meant to protect and serve the public, there have been alarming cases of excessive force, racism, and abuse of power. Victims of police brutality suffer not only physical harm but also emotional trauma and a violation of their civil rights. Keep reading to learn more facts about police brutality. 

Our Sacramento police brutality attorneys are committed to fighting against law enforcement misconduct and advocating for the rights of those who have been harmed. 

The State of Police Violence

Police violence remains a pervasive problem in California. According to data from Mapping Police Violence, California had the highest number of police killings in the United States in 2019, with 103 individuals losing their lives at the hands of law enforcement officers. This statistic is beyond alarming and indicates the need for systemic changes to prevent further loss of life.

Cities Where Police Killings Are Most Common

Certain cities in California have been more affected by police violence. In 2019, Los Angeles, for example, had the highest number of police killings, with 29 deaths. Other cities with high numbers of police killings include San Diego, Anaheim, Fresno, and San Bernardino. 

Facts About Police Brutality in California

• In a study conducted by the Center for Policing Equity, it was found that Black people in California are approximately 2.8 times more likely to have force used against them by law enforcement compared to white people.
• The same study revealed that Latinx people in California are 1.5 times more likely to have force used against them by law enforcement compared to white people.
• According to a 2016 report by the California Attorney General’s Office, Black people were more than twice as likely to be arrested compared to white people.
• In recent years, there have been numerous cases of unarmed individuals being shot and killed by police officers, sparking outrage and calls for justice.

Racial Disparities in Police Violence

Police violence disproportionately affects communities of color throughout California and the United States. Black and Latinx populations are more likely to experience the use of force by law enforcement officers compared to white populations. These racial disparities illustrate the deep-rooted issue of systemic racism within our criminal justice system.

Notable Cases of Police Violence and Their Impact

As Sacramento police brutality lawyers, every case of police violence in California disturbs us, but these are some that have garnered national attention. Examples include the killing of Stephon Clark in Sacramento, Eric Garner in Los Angeles, and Oscar Grant in Oakland. 

Legal Rights of Police Brutality Victims

If you survived police brutality, you can file a lawsuit and get compensated for your medical expenses, therapist bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and certain other damages. You’ll want to talk to a reputable, well-informed Sacramento police misconduct lawyer to get your case reviewed, learn your rights and options, and get the process started. Lawyers for the People can help.

Reach Out to a Sacramento, California Police Misconduct Lawyer

Our team of Sacramento police misconduct attorneys at Pointer and Buelna, LLP – Lawyers For The People, is ready to fight for you and help you get the financial compensation you deserve. Together, we can make a difference and hold law enforcement accountable! 

To set up a free legal consultation with us, contact our office now. Take action, call (510) 929-5400 now.

Find a Police Misconduct Lawyer Near You:

• Police misconduct attorney in Fresno
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• Police misconduct attorney in Sacramento
• Police misconduct attorney in Oakland
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