Interacting with local law enforcement representatives can be a harrowing experience. If you're not sure what officers wish to charge you with, you may feel intimidated and out of control. There are certain responses to a police presence, however, that can turn an already-confusing situation into an even worse one.

Complicating a Troubling Situation

Consider, for example, the case of James Crowley. Crowley was arrested on June 10^th, 2021 and accused of driving while intoxicated. After pulling him over, South Abington Township police officers removed his laptop from his vehicle before giving him a ride home, promising to keep it safe until he was fit to retrieve it.

Crowley, 59, did not respond well to the officers' concerns. Over the course of the next few hours, he proceeded to call area 911 dispatchers eight times to demand the return of his laptop. After a patrolman warned him that this behavior was inappropriate, Crowley proceeded to make his way to the local police station. Those present report that he arrived smelling of alcohol and continued to verbally abuse staff until on-duty officers arrested him for public intoxication.

The Impact of Inappropriate Behaviors

Originally, police officers could only bring Crowley up on DUI charges. Given his slight resistance at the scene and his previously recorded behavior, however, the situation changed. By Friday morning, Crowley faced eight charges of communications with 911, eight charges of disorderly conduct, and a charge of public drunkenness on top of his DUI.

Law enforcement representatives throughout Pennsylvania do not apply charges with vindictive intent. Rather, they respond to scenes to try and keep bystanders and those in their counties safe. Because Crowley antagonized local 911 operators as well as police station staff, he now risks fines and jail time that vastly outstrip what he might have endured had he only been accused of driving while intoxicated.

Let a Local Attorney Help You Face Criminal Allegations

The last thing you want to do when facing arrest is make your situation more complicated. As was the case with Crowley, it's clear that behaviors deemed aggressive – shouting, resisting arrest, making a scene, and so on – can vastly increase the fines, jail time, and other consequences that you may face. While an experienced attorney can still help you make the best of these kinds of situations, it is much easier to walk away from one bad night if you limit the number of charges law enforcement representatives can foist upon you.

If you find yourself facing unexpected criminal charges, do not try to handle the situation on your own. Instead, get in touch with attorneys at the LLF Law Firm. Our team can help you better understand the circumstances that led to your arrest while walking you through your applicable rights.

Do you have questions about a pending hearing? Schedule an initial case consultation with the LLF Law Firm by calling 888-535-3686 or via our digital form.