Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in Pennsylvania

Slander by Police

Las year my family and I moved to a small town where everyone knows everyone. While attending my son's football game last Sunday I intervened in an agrument between a teenager and an adult. This adult physically handled this teenager without cause and her mother is looking to press charges. Now I'm a witness. I gave my statement to the police but was informed by the teenagers mother that my statement was not included in the police report. She then asks the Police Officer to make an admenment to have my statement included. He then tells her that I have been arrested and that I am not a credible witness. I was given a Summary of Offense for Harrassment by this officer last year and rightfully pleaded ''not guilty'', charges were then dropped. Is a Summary of Offense the same as being arrested and does he have the right to share my personal information to others in my community?


Asked on 9/14/05, 11:16 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Charles A. Pascal, Jr. Law Office of Charles A. Pascal, Jr.

Re: Slander by Police

To answer your direct question, a summary charge is an arrest. However, you were not convicted. You have no credibility problem per se as a result of a charge of harassment, whether or not you were convicted. Your arrest record is a public record unless you have it expunged. You should do so.

I also agree with Atty. Valko.

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Answered on 9/15/05, 4:52 pm
Terrence Valko ERISA Disability Lawyer

Re: Slander by Police

this presents a strong case of official malfeasance and deserves a careful, close look in contemplation of a Federal Court civil rights action.

immunities are available to police officers which make the path difficult to traverse.

42 usc section 1983 allows for attorneys' fees, so you get free counsel. you must give notice within 6 months of the happening - not the 2 year statute of limitations.

good luck

Terrence A. Valko

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Answered on 9/15/05, 9:54 am


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