Arrests

06/03/2020 | Criminal Defense, Protest Charges

Pittsburgh Protests and Arrests

Arrests in Pittsburgh Protests for George Floyd

 

In Pittsburgh, and across the world, people are gathering to rally in response to the death of George Floyd in Minnesota, who died while in police custody.

Last week former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin was arrested and charged with third-degree murder and manslaughter.

People are calling for the additional three offers involved in his arrest to also be arrested and charged.

While the protesters are peaceful in nature and the protests took place as a show of solidarity, looting and rioting from fringe groups during the protests led to arrests and damage to property.

During the protests in Pittsburgh and East Liberty, dozens of people were arrested for various alleged crimes, many were injured, and many people found themselves behind bars following the protests.

For the most part, the protest in East Liberty was calm, with over 1,000 people peacefully marching and chanting, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune Review. Still, certain individuals were charged with inciting violence against police.

What Happens When Charged with a Crime During a Protest?

If you were charged with a summary offense, disorderly conduct, a property crime, resisting arrest or any other charge related to the protests in Pittsburgh, you should speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

Criminal charges during a protest may seem harmless, especially if you feel you are fighting for a good cause.

But criminal charges can also lead to a criminal record, which can deeply impact your ability to obtain loans for school or a vehicle, find a job, rent an apartment and many other normal activities that people without a criminal record have the freedom to pursue.

An arrest is not a conviction.

It is important to remember that being arrested and/or charged does not mean that you are guilty or will be convicted.

A fierce and determined criminal attorney can make a big difference in the outcome of your case.

In the wake of the recent rallies and protest across the area, you may find yourself in need of representation to resolve legal issues. Please contact Ketchel Law for a free consultation.

Our attorneys are here to help you fight your charges and win back your freedom.

OUR NUMBER ONE GOAL: GETTING YOUR CRIMINAL CHARGES DISMISSED.

CALL KETCHEL LAW TODAY: 412-456-1221 FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

If you or someone you know finds themselves in legal trouble as a result of the protests, please call our law office for consultation and allow us to help get your life back to normal.

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FREE LEGAL CONSULTATION

Call us today—412-456-1221 – to find out how we can help defend your rights.

Learn more about Ketchel Law:

CALL KETCHEL LAW TODAY: 412-456-1221 FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

03/27/2013 | Preventing DUIs

Pittsburgh Police Intensify Efforts to Make DUI Arrests on Holidays

This upcoming weekend, numerous people will travel to visit their family for Easter or will have family coming to visit them. There usually are family members that you have not seen in a while, and you may want to catch up with them over a drink at a local bar or restaurant. Additionally, if you are from out of town, you probably want to meet up with some of your friends who live in the area.

It’s great to get together with family and friends, but be extra careful. During holidays when you are merely looking to relax and catch-up with those who are closest to you, the police are aggressively making DUI arrests. Often, the police will position themselves near local bars and restaurants, and they only need minimal evidence that you have committed a traffic violation to justify stopping your vehicle.

Don’t think that because you only had one drink that you will be fine. In Pennsylvania, to be charged with a per se violation, your BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) has to be above .08%. However, the police can also charge you with a DUI for General Impairment, regardless of what your BAC is. If you are pulled over for a minor traffic infraction and the officer smells even the faintest odor of alcohol, you can, and most likely will, be charged with a DUI.

Even if you have never been arrested before, a general impairment conviction will result in having a misdemeanor on your record, mandatory probation, a mandatory fine, a drug and alcohol assessment and full compliance with any recommended drug or alcohol treatment. If your BAC is above .08%, the situation you are facing is much worse. If convicted you are facing mandatory time in jail and a mandatory suspension of your license.

I hope that you have a safe and happy time with your friends and family, but if you are charged with a DUI, do not delay in contacting me at 412.456.1221. My office specializes in DUI representation and everything possible will be done to have your charges dismissed.