Shootings and gun cases in Philadelphia have risen sharply in 2020. Here’s a look at some of the most recent data provided by the Philadelphia Police Department:
- From July 12, 2019 to July 12, 2020, there’s been a 55% increase in the number of shootings. (1018 versus 1578 shootings)
- During the same period, there’s been a 31% increase in the number of shooting victims. (720 versus 946 shooting victims)
- During the same period, there’s been a 24% increase in the number of aggravated assaults with gun. (1312 versus 1625 agg. assaults)
In addition, Philadelphia is on track for a record number of homicides in 2020. According to data from the Philadelphia Police Department, there have been 221 homicides as of July 13, 2020, compared to 176 homicides by July 13, 2020. The jump in the number of homicides (45) represents a 26% increase.
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With the sharp increase in violent crimes, the Philly Police Department is stretched thin, and very likely falling behind. Also, with recent citywide protests, law enforcement would certainly fall further behind.
When pressure mounts due to increases in violent crimes and lack of resources, mistakes are often made during investigations. These mistakes can lead to illegal police conduct, like an unconstitutional search or seizure/arrest.
In some cases, especially murder cases, police investigations may result in mistaken identity or a false confession. It’s critical for suspects and defendants to prepare the best defenses, including raising any legal issues like an illegal arrest or search.
SEARCH & SEIZURE LAW ARTICLES
Pennsylvania Criminal Law – Running or Walking Away from Police When an officer approaches a person on the street or sidewalk, can the person ignore the officer and walk or run away? Under PA constitutional law, the answer is yes. But, an officer can chase and stop the person if the officer has reasonable suspicion of criminal activity; the act of walking or running away doesn’t qualify as reasonable suspicion.
Car Searches in Philadelphia Drug/Gun Cases – Legal Rights of the Accused Traffic stops often result in searches and arrests for drug or gun charges. During a traffic stop, a driver, passenger and anything inside the car may be searched only if the officer has probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed.
Search & Seizure of Drugs or Guns in Pennsylvania Criminal Cases – Exceptions to the Warrant Requirement Under state and federal constitutional law, warrants are required for an arrest or search of a home, personal items, etc. However, there are so many exceptions to the warrant requirement, that the warrant rule is basically nonexistent.