We all react differently in stressful situations, and there are few more stressful situations than being approached by the police as a suspect. Some people may freeze in this situation while others may become irate.
It’s also not uncommon for individuals to try and run away, even when they have done nothing wrong. Outlined below are some key reasons why it is never a good idea to run from the police.
It gives them more power
Even if the police had a hunch that you committed a crime, a hunch is not enough to have you arrested or subject you to searches. Law enforcement generally needs to have probable cause before they detain, arrest or search you.
By running away, however, you only intensify their suspicion and you might just provide them with grounds to conduct further inquiries. Whereas, if you hadn’t run, you might have been left to get on with your day.
You could face further charges
Resisting arrest is a crime in itself in Texas. Any person who physically obstructs an officer from carrying out their duties could be charged with this offense.
Even if you were not guilty of the initial crime that you were suspected of doing, the resisting charge will be separate – which creates new legal woes.
It creates a guilty narrative
It’s possible that you may be placed on a criminal trial. This means that the prosecution will have to build a narrative that establishes your guilt. For most people, fleeing the scene of a crime could be portrayed as a sign of guilt. This could be how it looks in the eyes of the jury.
If you’re facing criminal charges then it’s vital to have protection in place. Seeking legal guidance will give you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in your case.