There are those who believe that the police have to be honest. They think that police officers are prohibited from lying to the public because they are public servants.
There are also those who believe that deception by the police is a form of entrapment. If the police trick you into saying that you committed a crime, for instance, it would be an illegal confession.
Either way, these individuals think that the police are obligated to be honest. But is this actually true?
The police are allowed to lie
As a general rule, the police are allowed to lie, and they can trick you into saying something. For instance, they could claim to already have testimony from a witness who says they saw you at the scene of the crime, even if no one has come forward and made such a claim. Officers could also lie about physical evidence they have or statements made by other suspects.
In many ways, police attempt to do this even during a simple traffic stop. The officer might walk up to the car and ask you if you have had anything to drink. If you say yes – even if they’re no longer impaired, such as when you had a drink with dinner hours before – the officer may interpret this as an admission of drinking and driving.
This is why it’s often best not to answer any questions without your legal team at your side. You have a right to remain silent. Be sure you carefully consider everything you say and all of your legal options.
