7 Police Myths Perpetuated by Media

Posted By: Contributor January 21, 2010

Cezary Jan Strusiewicz of Cracked has the 7 Bullshit Police Myths Everyone Believes (Thanks to Movies):

#7.
Forensic Science is Magic
#6.
The Insanity Defense Lets You Get Away With Murder
#5.
Not Talking To Cops Equals Obstruction of Justice
#4.
Undercover Cops Have To Identify Themselves If Asked
#3.
Tracing a Call Takes a Long Time
#2.
Criminals Must Be Read Their Miranda Rights or They Will Go Free
#1.
Everyone Gets One Free Phone Call

(n.b. it’s American law, for interest sake only)

4 Comments on "7 Police Myths Perpetuated by Media"

  1. J. Burton | January 21, 2010 at 5:53 pm |

    I’m interested in #2:

    “Criminals Must Be Read Their Miranda Rights or They Will Go Free”

    what are the results of not reading rights? Canada or US?

  2. Greg | January 23, 2010 at 12:53 am |

    “what are the results of not reading rights? Canada or US?”

    It’s the same in both countries: You don’t do as well on your constitutional or criminal exams, but the curve carries you.

    :)

  3. Tyler | January 23, 2010 at 1:31 pm |

    I think as a citizen of both countries, you should already know you rights or else you should ask and if they don’t tell you, then I think that’s when it goes in your favor.

  4. Tom | April 24, 2010 at 4:22 pm |

    The answer to all of the questions on number two is that in the U.S. Miranda rights need to be read before the interview process otherwise the information you obtain from the suspect can be thrown out. This is not a get out of jail free card more like a do over. you must be made aware of your rights before interview.

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