One of the more common myths regarding police officers, especially in recent years, is that they must identify themselves as police officers. This is not true. We often see this myth perpetuated in the media and on television. But as it is often said, do not believe everything you see on television or in the movies. Relying too heavily on what you read in the media or see on the big screen can result in believing in certain falsities.

Make no mistake, the police can and will lie. If you have been accused of participating in illegal activity, it is critical to hire a criminal defense attorney to protect your rights and avoid incriminating yourself. In this blog, we will take a deeper dive into situations in which police may or may not lie to suspects.

Police Officers, Sting Operations, and Entrapment. What Does It All Mean? 

You may have heard of something referred to as a “sting operation,” which are operations that try and catch criminals in the act of committing a crime. For example, an undercover police officer may pose as an underage girl online in order to lure child predators into breaking the law. These types of operations are perfectly legal. On the other hand, entrapment is not legal. Entrapment involves forcing someone or coercing them to break the law. In comparison, a sting operation allows someone the opportunity to break the law. 

You are likely aware of the term “white-collar crime.” Generally speaking, white-collar crime refers to financially motivated crimes such as mail fraud, wire fraud, insurance fraud, forgery, embezzlement, and more. Many people do not know that while white-collar crimes are not violent, they are very serious and can be exceedingly complex. Just because a crime is not violent does not make it a non-serious offense. 

White-collar crimes can bring with them hefty fines and lengthy prison sentences. This blog will look at common myths associated with white-collar offenses and how to avoid falling victim to common misconceptions. At the outset, we cannot stress enough that if you have been charged with a white-collar crime, it is critical that you contact an attorney at once to put yourself in the best position possible to pursue a positive result in your favor.

Two Common White Collar-Crime Myths

White-collar cases can be just as, if not more complex than, violent offenses. As a result, various myths are thrown around regarding white-collar crime. These myths may include the following:

In the State of Illinois, a robbery occurs when someone takes property from someone else through force or the threatened use of force. Additionally, the law states that the taking of property must be directly from another person or in the presence of another person. Being charged with robbery is a serious offense that, if convicted, may land the accused in prison for an extended period and require the accused to pay hefty fines.

While challenging, there are different ways to beat a charge of robbery. If you have been charged with robbery, it is essential you consult with a knowledgable attorney who has experience in robbery cases to ensure the most favorable outcome for yourself in the case. 

Robbery Laws in Illinois

Notably, robbery is a type of theft offense. To begin, robbery is a class 2 felony holding punishments of three to seven years in prison and fines up to $25,000. Suppose the robbery is committed against someone 60 years or older or in a place of worship, daycare facility, or school. In that case, the charge is escalated to a class 1 felony, carrying a punishment of four to fifteen years in prison and fines up to $25,000. Once you are released from jail, you will be placed on parole for two years. 

Society considers sex crimes to be especially egregious. Even if an allegation of sexual assault is completely unfounded, the accusation alone is often enough to tarnish a person's reputation forever. If you were accused of sexual assault or rape, the importance of a strong defense cannot be overstated. You need to take immediate action to defend yourself and your future.

Do Not Make the Situation Worse than it Already Is

Anyone accused of a serious criminal offense such as sexual assault must understand that our right against self-incrimination exists for a reason. You have the right to remain silent, and you should exercise it. Do not try to talk your way out of the situation or make excuses. The police will likely use anything you say against you. It is always best to let your lawyer do the talking for you.

It is also crucial that you stay away from the person who accused you. Any contact or communication you have with the accuser could lead to further allegations.

One of the most ubiquitous myths about police officers is the rumor that police must identify themselves as law enforcement officers. On the hit television show Breaking Bad, a methamphetamine dealer suspects that an alleged buyer is really an undercover police officer. The alleged buyer says, “If you ask a cop if he is a cop, he is obligated to tell you.”  Unfortunately, the methamphetamine dealer falls for this trick, sells the drugs to the undercover officer, and is promptly arrested.

Many people wonder whether police officers are allowed to lie to criminal suspects. The answer is undoubtedly, yes. This is one reason it is so crucial for individuals accused of criminal activity to retain a skilled criminal defense lawyer.  

Sting Operations and Entrapment

Police often use undercover operations or “sting operations” to catch criminals in the act. Police may lie about their identity and intentions to apprehend criminals. For example, a police officer may pose as an underage girl online or pretend to be interested in buying illicit drugs to catch people breaking the law. Sting operations are perfectly legal. However, entrapment is not legal. The difference between entrapment and a sting operation is that entrapment involves coercing or forcing someone to break the law, while a sting operation merely provides an opportunity for someone to break the law.