Imagine being at home one night when you get a phone call from your child who is away at college. They tell you they’re in trouble and have been arrested. Your heart races as you listen, thinking, “This can’t be right. There must be some mistake.” In some cases, that can be exactly what has happened.
The alarming reality of student arrests
A recent report highlights the concerning trend of school cops doubling student arrest rates, with race and gender playing significant roles in these arrests. The report highlights the very real concerns about bias and fairness in both our criminal justice and education systems. The study found that:
- Black students face higher arrest rates than white students
- Police arrest students with disabilities more often than those without disabilities
- LGBTQ+ students also see higher arrest numbers
These findings call out serious issues regarding fairness in campus policing. They suggest that some students face increased police attention and arrest based on their identity.
Why do innocent students wind up wrongfully arrested?
Police bias and discriminatory arrests are a serious concern for any parent with a college-aged child. Unfortunately, it’s not the only reason behind wrongful arrests and convictions. Several factors can come into play, including:
- False allegations: A lie, misunderstanding or miscommunication can lead to false accusations.
- Misidentification: In the chaos of campus life, it’s easy to mistake one person for another.
- Overzealous policing: Aggressive policing tactics can lead to unnecessary arrests.
Identifying these failures is crucial in effectively defending a young person against charges. They can dramatically influence the defense strategies and legal options available.
Protecting your child’s rights
If you believe your child was unfairly arrested, consider the following steps:
- Stay calm and gather information.
- Reassure your child that you will help them through this.
- Contact a lawyer who knows student rights.
- Keep detailed records of everything that happens and every conversation you have regarding your child’s situation.
Remember, an arrest doesn’t mean your child is guilty. Many cases get dropped or end in not-guilty verdicts when the facts come to light. Trust your instincts if something seems off about your child’s arrest, and know that you can help them defend their name, freedom and future.