Case Law On Police Misconduct And Accountability

24 Sep 2025 --
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Police Misconduct and Accountability: Overview

Police misconduct includes abuse of authority, excessive use of force, unlawful detention, and violation of fundamental rights. Courts have played a crucial role in defining the limits of police powers and ensuring accountability through remedies such as compensation, disciplinary action, and reforms.

1. Tennessee v. Garner (1985) – United States

Background: Police officers shot and killed Edward Garner, a fleeing suspect, under a Tennessee law allowing deadly force to prevent escape.

Issue: Whether the use of deadly force against an unarmed, fleeing suspect violates the Fourth Amendment’s protection against unreasonable seizures.

Judicial Interpretation: The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that deadly force may only be used if the officer has probable cause to believe the suspect poses a significant threat of death or serious physical injury. The use of deadly force against a fleeing suspect who poses no immediate danger is unconstitutional.

Significance: This case set constitutional limits on police use of force and underscored the need for accountability when excessive force is used.

2. K.K. Verma v. Union of India (1990) – India

Background: A petition was filed regarding custodial deaths and police excesses.

Issue: The role of police in ensuring protection of human rights and accountability in cases of custodial violence.

Judicial Interpretation: The Supreme Court of India held that custodial violence is a violation of fundamental rights under Articles 21 (right to life) and 14 (equality). The police have a duty to protect human rights, and courts can intervene to ensure accountability and compensation.

Significance: This case reinforced judicial oversight of police conduct and laid down guidelines to prevent custodial abuse.

3. Graham v. Connor (1989) – United States

Background: Graham, a diabetic, was forcibly detained and injured by police officers during a misunderstanding related to his medical condition.

Issue: What is the appropriate standard for evaluating police use of force claims under the Fourth Amendment?

Judicial Interpretation: The Supreme Court introduced the "objective reasonableness" standard — police conduct must be judged from the perspective of a reasonable officer on the scene, without hindsight.

Significance: This case balanced the need to hold officers accountable while recognizing the split-second decisions police must make, guiding how courts assess claims of excessive force.

4. Nilabati Behera v. State of Orissa (1993) – India

Background: A woman died in police custody due to alleged torture.

Issue: Whether the state is liable for police misconduct leading to death in custody and the nature of compensation.

Judicial Interpretation: The Supreme Court held the state liable for custodial deaths and directed payment of compensation to the victim’s family as a measure of accountability. The Court emphasized that the right to life under Article 21 includes protection from torture and custodial violence.

Significance: This judgment reinforced state accountability for police misconduct and compensation as a remedy.

5. Miranda v. Arizona (1966) – United States

Background: Miranda was interrogated by police without being informed of his rights and confessed.

Issue: Whether suspects must be informed of their rights to remain silent and have legal counsel during police interrogation.

Judicial Interpretation: The U.S. Supreme Court mandated that police must inform suspects of their rights (Miranda warnings) to protect against self-incrimination and coercion.

Significance: This landmark decision promotes police accountability by safeguarding individual rights during police custody and interrogation.