Police officers can make arrests outside their jurisdiction in exceptional cases. There is a mutual agreement between authorities and law enforcement that this is allowed. The police officers have the right to apply their discretion in arresting or stopping people...
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Pulled over by the police? Understand your rights
It can be a stressful time seeing those flashing red and blue lights. However, staying composed during this time is critical to navigating this police encounter. Before you try to resist, argue or interfere with the officer, you need to remember to stay calm. Even if...
Which actions are considered violent crimes?
Several actions are considered violent crimes, otherwise considered felonies. Violent crimes can include homicide and violent robbery. The FBI uniform crime reporting program defines violent crimes as offenses involving force or the threat to use force. Violent...
Dealing with violent crime charges
Violent crimes are any cases that involve the threat of force, use of force or use of weapons. Most people tend to think that violent crime is only associated with physical harm. However, any threats of harm that lead to genuine or immediate fear also constitute...
Will St. Louis air surveillance violate your constitutional rights?
St. Louis doesn't need a plane crime surveillance system, but the city will probably get one anyway. Once implemented, it may allow police to overstep your Constitutional rights. A network of technological equipment already monitors St. Louis residents like...
Controversial police property seizure practice still happening in Missouri
Nationwide, a controversial but common police practice has received increasing media attention. Called civil asset forfeiture, it refers to the police power to seize a suspect's private property if the police allege that it is involved in a crime. In many states,...
Facing money laundering charges in Missouri
Both federal and Missouri state laws contain prohibitions against money laundering. Generally, this crime consists of purposely concealing the illegal provenance of funds. The Missouri statute applies the label of money laundering to transactions that aim to...
Should I plead the fifth when facing criminal charges?
One question that might cross your mind as you contemplate possible defense tactics is if you should plead the fifth. Regardless of the criminal charges you face, you have a constitutional right to avoid self-incrimination by remaining silent. You might believe you...
Facing marijuana drug charges in Missouri: drug court
The last article discussed the different types of charges for marijuana possession. Sometimes the users of marijuana and other controlled substances have an addiction and would benefit more from help than confinement. The courts recognize this and have put...
Facing marijuana drug charges in Missouri: types
Over the last few years, various law professionals have been working together to improve the sentencing for marijuana charges. Thankfully, their efforts are resulting in regulations that are not so harsh for first-time and minor offenders. However, those...