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For Immediate Release:
October 23, 2019
For more information, contact:
Denise Douglas
Communication Specialist
Office of the State’s Attorney, Prince George’s County
dadouglas@co.pg.md.us
240-691-3967 cell or 301-780-8206 office
@PGSAONEWS
STATEMENT FROM STATE’S ATTORNEY AISHA BRAVEBOY ON POLICE USE OF FORCE
In response to recent events I thought it was important to advise the public of the State’s Attorney’s role and responsibility in evaluating incidents involving police use of force.
The State’s Attorney’s Office is an independent law enforcement entity that works in collaboration with law enforcement to investigate cases involving criminal allegations and bring charges, where we deem them appropriate. We are also responsible for protecting the constitutional and civil rights of each person who has been stopped, detained, arrested, or investigated by law enforcement in Prince George’s County.
We evaluate every criminal case to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to pursue criminal charges. In evaluating evidence, we ensure that it was lawfully obtained and no person’s constitutional rights were violated. Anytime a police officer discharges his or her firearm or an inappropriate use of force is alleged our Public Integrity Unit conducts an independent review to determine if an officer’s use of force rises to the level to warrant criminal charges. This review includes analyzing reports generated by the police, gathering additional evidence, interviewing witnesses and presenting evidence to the grand jury for their action. If the grand jury returns an indictment, we proceed with a prosecution.
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