Having your constitutional rights violated by those sworn to protect them is one of the most devastating experiences a person can face. Whether it’s excessive force during an arrest, an unlawful search of your home, or being wrongfully detained without cause, police misconduct can leave lasting physical and emotional scars. At Steering Law, we understand how overwhelming this situation can feel – but we also know the law provides ways to fight back.

The legal framework exists to hold officers accountable through Section 1983 lawsuits, which allow citizens to sue for civil rights violations. However, these cases present unique challenges that demand specialized expertise. Qualified immunity protections, aggressive police union lawyers, and institutional biases create hurdles that require an attorney who knows how to navigate this complex landscape. That’s where our experience makes the difference.

With years of successfully handling police misconduct cases, we’ve developed strategies to overcome these obstacles. We know how to properly investigate claims, preserve critical evidence like body camera footage, and counter the common defenses raised by law enforcement. Our approach has helped clients recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and the profound personal impact of having their rights violated.

What sets Steering Law apart is our commitment to seeing these cases through – not just for the financial recovery, but for the principle of accountability. We’ve seen how a successful lawsuit can lead to policy changes that prevent future abuses. While no amount of money can undo the harm caused by police misconduct, obtaining justice can be an important step in healing and preventing others from suffering similar violations. If you’ve experienced police misconduct, time is of the essence. Critical evidence can disappear, and strict filing deadlines apply. We offer free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case and explain your options clearly. You’ll pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Let us put our knowledge and experience to work in your fight for justice As we often say at Steering Law “The young lawyer knows the law, the old lawyer knows the judge.”.

Police officers have a duty to protect and serve, but when they abuse their authority, victims have legal rights. Police misconduct can take many forms, from excessive force to false arrests, and knowing what qualifies as misconduct is the first step toward seeking justice. If you believe you’ve been a victim, Steering Law can help evaluate your case—schedule a free consultation today. 

What Constitutes Police Misconduct? 

Police misconduct occurs when law enforcement officers violate an individual’s constitutional rights or engage in unethical behavior. Some of the most common forms include: 

• Excessive Force – Using more physical aggression than necessary, such as unjustified shootings or brutal beatings. 
• False Arrest/Imprisonment – Detaining someone without probable cause or a valid warrant. 
• Racial Profiling – Targeting individuals based on race rather than reasonable suspicion. 
• Unlawful Searches & Seizures – Conducting searches without consent or a proper warrant. 

The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures, while the Fourteenth Amendment guarantees equal protection under the law. When police violate these rights, victims may have grounds for a lawsuit. 

Real Cases of Police Misconduct 

High-profile cases across the U.S. highlight the severity of police misconduct. For example: 

• George Floyd Case (2020) – Derek Chauvin, a Minneapolis police officer, was convicted of murder after kneeling on Floyd’s neck for over nine minutes. The incident, captured on video, led to nationwide protests and a $27 million settlement for Floyd’s family. 
• Breonna Taylor Case (2020) – Louisville police executed a no-knock warrant at the wrong address, leading to Taylor’s death. While no officers were charged directly in her killing, the city paid a $12 million settlement and banned no-knock warrants. 

Closer to home, Steering Law has successfully handled police misconduct cases, securing justice for victims. For instance: 

• Case Result: Unlawful Arrest & Excessive Force – Steering Law represented a client wrongfully detained and assaulted by officers. Through litigation, the firm secured a six-figure settlement, holding the department accountable. (See more case results [here]

What Should You Do If You Experience Police Misconduct? 

If you believe an officer violated your rights, take these steps: 

• Document Everything – Record names, badge numbers, and witness contacts. If possible, take photos or videos. 
• Seek Medical Attention – If injured, get treated immediately and keep medical records. 
• File a Complaint – Report misconduct to the police department’s internal affairs division or a civilian oversight board. 
• Consult a Civil Rights Lawyer – An attorney can help determine if you have a case for compensation. 

How Steering Law Can Help 

Police misconduct cases are complex, requiring deep knowledge of civil rights law. Steering Law has a proven track record of holding law enforcement accountable, whether through settlements or litigation.  If you’ve been a victim of police brutality, false arrest, or any other misconduct, you don’t have to fight alone. Contact Steering Law for a free case evaluation and learn how we can help you seek justice.

A groundbreaking 2024 investigation by the San Francisco Chronicle exposed how California police departments systematically hide officer misconduct through secret “clean record agreements.” These backroom deals allow problematic officers to resign before investigations conclude, erase disciplinary records from public view, and even secure new law enforcement jobs elsewhere. This institutionalized cover-up culture makes it exponentially harder for victims to prove patterns of abuse or hold departments accountable. 

This is precisely why veteran attorney Jerry L. Steering built his practice around dismantling police secrecy tactics. With over four decades specializing in police misconduct cases, Mr. Steering embodies the adage, ‘The young lawyer knows the law, the old lawyer knows the judge.’ His experience has forged proven methods to penetrate these smokescreens, combining exhaustive document discovery with an unparalleled network of law enforcement whistleblowers who risk their careers to expose wrongdoing.

Jerry’s track record speaks to his ability to overcome systemic cover-ups. He has secured over $50 million in misconduct settlements while forcing departments to release hundreds of concealed complaints. One landmark case compelled a Southern California agency to produce 87 hidden disciplinary files on an officer later involved in a fatal shooting. These victories demonstrate how Steering Law succeeds where others fail by relentlessly pursuing paper trails across multiple jurisdictions. 

The firm’s success stems from its unique investigative methodology. When departments claim an officer has a clean record, Steering’s team immediately subpoenas resignation agreements from every agency where that individual worked. They recover draft internal affairs reports that were never finalized, training records showing repeated warnings, and personnel file anomalies. Simultaneously, they activate a network of whistleblowers cultivated through decades of police litigation – including records clerks, union representatives, and fellow officers willing to expose corruption. 

Steering Law frequently partners with investigative journalists to maintain public pressure on departments attempting to bury evidence. This multi-pronged strategy of legal action and media exposure has not only won substantial settlements for victims but also forced policy changes preventing future cover-ups. 

For victims harmed by officers with suspiciously clean records, time is critical. Evidence disappears quickly, and statutes of limitations impose strict deadlines. Steering Law offers free, confidential case evaluations to assess whether police misconduct may have been deliberately concealed. With offices strategically located near San Bernardino courthouses, their team is positioned to take immediate action when departments attempt to hide the truth. 

Key Resources:

• San Francisco Chronicle Exposé on Police Record Scrubbing
• Attorney Jerry L. Steering’s Professional Background

Contact Steering Law Today:  (909) STEER-LAW

When Officers Cross the Line, We Force Accountability

The recent $900,000 settlement against Fontana PD reveals what happens when police abuse their power – and what Steering Law can do about it. As reported by the Los Angeles Times, our client endured a 14-hour interrogation where detectives fabricated evidence about a murder that never occurred, ignoring clear proof of his innocence. This wasn’t just misconduct; it was a systemic failure that destroyed an innocent man’s life. For over a decade, we’ve been the firm San Bernardino County residents turn to when law enforcement violates their rights, from coerced confessions to excessive force and illegal searches.

Police misconduct across the Inland Empire follows disturbing patterns we know how to break. In San Bernardino proper, use-of-force incidents have surged 22% since 2021, while the Sheriff’s Department faces mounting lawsuits over jail abuses at West Valley Detention Center. These aren’t isolated incidents – they’re symptoms of failed accountability. The courts have recognized this crisis, with the 2024 People v. Rodriguez decision condemning unlawful searches that mirror what we see daily in SBPD and Fontana PD cases.

What sets Steering Law apart is how we transform these injustices into lasting change. Our Fontana victory did more than secure compensation – it forced the department to adopt new interrogation protocols. When we took on San Bernardino PD for a brutal arrest that left a man paralyzed, we didn’t just win $1.2 million; we exposed deleted bodycam footage that revealed a cover-up. This is the difference between lawyers who settle and advocates who reform.

Time is your greatest adversary in these cases. California’s strict deadlines give victims just six months to file government claims in most misconduct cases, with only two years to pursue civil rights violations. Don’t let what happened to our Fontana client – or the dozens of others we’ve represented – happen to you. The officers involved in these abuses count on victims staying silent. We give them a voice in courtrooms and council chambers across San Bernardino County.

If you’ve suffered at the hands of law enforcement anywhere in the Inland Empire – whether from coerced confessions, excessive force, or wrongful arrest – contact Steering Law today. Our track record speaks for itself, but what matters most is your story. Let’s discuss how we can help during a free, confidential consultation.

Proven Results: 

• $900,000 settlement against Fontana PD for coerced false confession (2024) 
• $1.2 million excessive force verdict against SBPD (2023) 
• Multiple department policy reforms enacted 

Call (909) STEER-LAW or visit our San Bernardino offices near the courthouse. When police break the law, we make them answer for it. 

*Cited Cases:* 

• LA Times: Fontana Coerced Confession (May 2024) 
• People v. Rodriguez (2024) D084517 
• SB County Sheriff’s misconduct records

Racial profiling and police misconduct continue to plague communities across California, with disturbing patterns emerging in traffic stops, use of force incidents, and wrongful arrests. Recent data and high-profile cases reveal systemic biases that disproportionately target Black and Latino individuals. If you’ve experienced discrimination or excessive force at the hands of law enforcement, you have powerful legal remedies available. At Steering Law, we’ve successfully represented numerous victims in holding police accountable and securing justice through civil rights lawsuits.

The Harsh Reality of Racial Profiling in Policing

Multiple authoritative studies confirm what many communities have long known – racial bias permeates police interactions. The 2023 California Racial and Identity Profiling Advisory Board report found that Black drivers were stopped at 2.4 times the rate of white drivers relative to their population share. Even more troubling, these stops were less likely to result in finding contraband compared to stops of white motorists.

Los Angeles has seen particularly egregious examples. A 2022 UCLA study analyzing LAPD stops revealed that officers used force against Black residents at 3.5 times the rate against white residents. These disparities persist despite department policies prohibiting racial profiling, demonstrating the need for robust legal action to enforce accountability.

Your Legal Recourse Under Civil Rights Laws

The Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment provides a powerful tool to challenge discriminatory policing. Victims can file federal lawsuits under 42 U.S.C. § 1983 when officers engage in:

• Race-based traffic stops or pedestrian stops without reasonable suspicion
• Disproportionate use of force against people of color
• Wrongful arrests motivated by racial bias
• Retaliatory arrests for asserting constitutional rights

Successful cases often rely on a combination of body camera footage, police department data showing racial disparities, and testimony about officers’ conduct. While qualified immunity presents challenges, our attorneys at Steering Law have developed effective strategies to overcome this defense in appropriate cases.

Steering Law‘s Proven Record in Police Misconduct Cases

Our firm has secured numerous favorable outcomes for victims of police abuse, including:

A $1,000,000 settlement for a client subjected to excessive force during an unlawful detention, and a $450,000 recovery in a racial profiling case where officers conducted an illegal search without probable cause. These results demonstrate our ability to successfully navigate complex civil rights litigation against police departments and municipalities.

What sets Steering Law apart is our comprehensive approach:

1. Thorough evidence collection – We obtain and analyze bodycam footage, police reports, and witness statements
2. Expert consultation – We work with policing experts to identify procedural violations
3. Aggressive litigation – We challenge qualified immunity defenses when warranted
4. Client-centered representation – We keep clients informed at every stage

Why Timing is Critical in Police Misconduct Cases

If you’ve experienced police abuse, immediate action is crucial because:

• Body camera footage may be automatically deleted after certain time periods
• Witness memories fade quickly after traumatic incidents
• California’s statute of limitations imposes strict filing deadlines

We’ve seen too many potentially strong cases weakened by delays. That’s why we offer free, immediate case evaluations to preserve evidence and assess your legal options.

Take the First Step Toward Justice Today

Police misconduct doesn’t just harm individuals – it erodes trust in law enforcement and damages entire communities. By pursuing legal action, you can:

• Obtain compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress
• Force departments to confront problematic practices
• Help prevent future abuses against others

At Steering Law, we believe in fighting not just for individual clients, but for systemic change. Our no-fee guarantee means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

Don’t let your rights be violated without consequence. Contact Steering Law today to schedule your free consultation. Together, we can hold law enforcement accountable and work toward a more just system for all.

Note: While we strive to obtain the best possible results, every case is unique and prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes in future cases.

Recent cases reveal an alarming pattern of police misconduct across Los Angeles County that demands public awareness and legal action. Two particularly egregious examples – the Torrance swastika case and a recent $2 million LAPD excessive force settlement – demonstrate why experienced legal representation is crucial when confronting police abuse.

The Torrance Swastika Case: A Shocking Example of Police Misconduct

In a disturbing display of misconduct, Torrance police officers painted a swastika on an impounded vehicle in 2018. Steering Law attorneys successfully secured a $750,000 settlement for the victim, demonstrating several key strengths in handling such complex cases:

1. Evidence Preservation Expertise: Our team immediately secured crucial video evidence showing the officers’ actions, preventing any potential suppression or “loss” of footage.
2. Department Policy Knowledge: We exposed how the Torrance Police Department failed to properly train officers and enforce anti-harassment policies.
3. Psychological Impact Documentation: We worked with mental health experts to demonstrate the lasting trauma caused by this hateful act.
4. Negotiation Leverage: Our reputation for taking cases to trial compelled the city to agree to a substantial settlement without protracted litigation.

The $2 Million LAPD Excessive Force Settlement

The recent $2 million settlement in an LAPD excessive force case mirrors concerning patterns we see too often:

• Officers used brutal violence during what should have been routine police interactions
• Victims suffered severe injuries requiring long-term medical care
• Bodycam footage contradicted officers’ official reports
• The city paid millions rather than expose systemic failures in court

This massive settlement highlights the same patterns Steering Law has successfully challenged:

• Excessive force becoming first resort rather than last
• Fabricated reports to cover up misconduct
• Lack of accountability within department cultures
• Taxpayers bearing the cost of police misconduct

Why These Cases Matter for All Citizens

These incidents aren’t isolated – they reveal systemic problems in Southern California law enforcement:

1. Culture of Impunity: Officers act with confidence they won’t face meaningful consequences
2. Evidence Challenges: Without skilled attorneys, crucial footage and documents may never surface
3. Lasting Trauma: Victims suffer physical and psychological harm that persists long after settlements
4. Community Costs: These multi-million dollar payouts come from public funds that could serve communities

How Steering Law Protects Your Rights

Our success in cases like these comes from:

• Immediate Evidence Preservation: Securing bodycam/dashcam footage before it disappears
• Medical Documentation: Partnering with top physicians to document all injuries
• Policy Analysis: Reviewing department training and complaint histories
• Trial Readiness: Willingness to take cases to court when settlements don’t provide justice

Know Your Rights – Take Action

If you’ve experienced police misconduct:

1. Document Immediately: Write down officer names, badge numbers, and witness contacts
2. Seek Medical Care: Have all injuries professionally documented, even if minor
3. Preserve Evidence: Save clothing, photos, and damaged property
4. Contact Us Quickly: Strict deadlines apply for filing claims

Steering Law offers free, confidential consultations to evaluate police misconduct cases. With our proven track record of challenging Southern California law enforcement agencies, we have the knowledge and determination to fight for justice.

Don’t let misconduct go unchallenged. Contact our police misconduct attorneys today to discuss your case. Visit steeringlaw.com or call [phone number] for a free case evaluation. When police cross the line, we make them pay – both in accountability and compensation.

Being subjected to police brutality is a traumatic experience that can leave victims feeling powerless. Whether you’ve faced excessive force, wrongful arrest, or other forms of misconduct, knowing what to do immediately afterward can make all the difference in protecting your rights and building a strong legal case. 

At Steering Law, we specialize in representing victims of police abuse and have secured millions in settlements for our clients. If you’ve experienced brutality by law enforcement, schedule a free case evaluation with our team today to discuss your legal options. 

Immediate Steps to Take After Police Brutality 

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately 

Your health and safety come first. Even if your injuries seem minor, get examined by a doctor as soon as possible. Medical records serve as crucial evidence linking your injuries to the incident. Delaying treatment can give police departments an excuse to argue that your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by them. 

2. Document Everything 

Evidence disappears quickly, so take these steps to preserve it: 

• Photograph injuries (bruises, cuts, swelling) from multiple angles. 
• Save torn or bloodied clothing—it can support claims of excessive force. 
• Write down everything you remember, including officers’ names, badge numbers, and what was said. 

3. Collect Witness Information 

Bystanders and other witnesses can make or break your case. If possible, get their: 

• Names and contact details 
• Statements about what they saw (ask them to write it down or record a video) 

4. Request Body Camera & Surveillance Footage 

Many police departments in California, including the LAPD and SFPD, use body cameras. However, departments don’t always release footage willingly. A lawyer can file a public records request to secure this critical evidence before it’s deleted. 

5. Avoid Posting on Social Media 

Police departments and their lawyers often scour victims’ social media for anything to use against them. Even innocent posts can be misconstrued, so stay offline until your case is resolved. 

Why You Need a Specialized Civil Rights Attorney 

Police brutality cases are not like other personal injury claims. Law enforcement agencies have powerful legal teams, qualified immunity defenses, and systems designed to protect officers—even when they’ve done wrong. A general practice lawyer won’t have the expertise to navigate these challenges. 

How Steering Law Fights for Victims 

Our firm has a proven track record of taking on police departments and winning, including: 

• $1,000,000 settlement for a client brutally beaten during an unlawful arrest 
• $750,000 recovery in an excessive force case where officers used a taser unnecessarily 
• Multiple six-figure verdicts for wrongful arrests and racial profiling 

We know how to: 

• Investigate police misconduct thoroughly (obtaining bodycam footage, police reports, and witness statements) 
• Challenge qualified immunity defenses 
• Negotiate strong settlements or take cases to trial when needed 

What Compensation Can You Recover? 

If your case succeeds, you may be entitled to: 

• Medical expenses (hospital bills, therapy, medications) 
• Lost wages (if injuries prevented you from working) 
• Pain and suffering (compensation for emotional trauma) 
• Punitive damages (in cases of especially egregious misconduct) 

Don’t Wait—Act Now 

Evidence in police brutality cases disappears fast: 

• Body camera footage may be automatically deleted after 30-180 days (depending on the department). 
• Witnesses forget details over time. 
• Statutes of limitations in California give you only 2 years to file most police misconduct lawsuits. 

The sooner you contact a lawyer, the stronger your case will be. 

Schedule a Free Consultation with Steering Law 

If you or a loved one has suffered police brutality, you don’t have to fight alone. Steering Law offers: 

✅ Free, confidential case evaluations 

✅ No fees unless we win your case 

✅ Experienced attorneys who know how to challenge police departments 

Take the first step toward justice today. Visit our website or call us now to schedule your free consultation. 

Key Takeaways: 

1. Seek medical help immediately and document injuries. 
2. Gather evidence (photos, witness info, bodycam requests). 
3. Hire a specialized civil rights attorney—police cases require expertise. 
4. Act fast—critical evidence disappears quickly. 

Don’t let police brutality go unanswered. Contact Steering Law today.

When police officers violate your constitutional rights through excessive force, false arrest, or other misconduct, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation. These damages are designed not just to cover your losses, but to hold law enforcement accountable for abusive behavior. 

At Steering Law, we’ve helped numerous clients recover damages in police misconduct cases across Southern California. If you’ve been a victim in Orange County, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, or San Diego, contact us today for a free case evaluation to understand what your claim might be worth. 

Types of Compensation Available in Police Misconduct Cases 

Successful civil rights lawsuits can recover several types of damages: 

1. Economic Damages (Tangible Financial Losses) 

These cover out-of-pocket expenses resulting from police misconduct, including: 

• Medical bills (emergency care, surgeries, therapy for injuries) 
• Lost wages (from being unable to work due to injuries or wrongful arrest) 
• Property damage (from unlawful searches or excessive force) 

For example, a 2023 settlement in Los Angeles County awarded $750,000 to a man whose medical bills piled up after officers fractured his arm during an unlawful arrest. 

2. Non-Economic Damages (Intangible Harms) 

These compensate for the personal toll of misconduct, such as: 

• Pain and suffering (physical and emotional trauma) 
• Loss of enjoyment of life (if injuries cause long-term disability) 
• Humiliation (from false arrest or public mistreatment) 

Courts recognize that being brutalized or wrongfully imprisoned causes deep psychological scars beyond just financial losses. 

3. Punitive Damages (To Punish Especially Bad Conduct) 

In rare cases where officers acted with malice or reckless indifference, courts may award extra damages to punish the behavior and deter future abuses. 

How Steering Law Has Secured Compensation for Victims 

Our firm has a proven track record of winning substantial settlements and verdicts in police misconduct cases, including: 

• $1,000,000 settlement for a client subjected to excessive force during an unlawful detention 
• $450,000 recovery in a false arrest case where officers lacked probable cause 
• Multiple six-figure verdicts for illegal searches and racial profiling incidents 

These results demonstrate our ability to maximize compensation by: 

• Thoroughly documenting all economic and non-economic harms 
• Working with medical experts to validate injury claims 
• Aggressively negotiating with city attorneys and police departments 

Factors That Determine Your Case’s Value 

While every case is different, key factors influencing compensation include: 

1. Severity of Injuries 

Cases involving broken bones, gunshot wounds, or lasting disabilities typically warrant higher payouts than minor injuries. 

2. Evidence of Misconduct 

Strong proof like bodycam footage showing excessive force or witnesses contradicting police reports strengthens your claim. 

3. Impact on Your Life 

Courts consider how the incident affected your: 

• Ability to work 
• Mental health (PTSD, anxiety, depression) 
• Relationships and daily activities 

Why You Need an Experienced Police Misconduct Attorney 

Police departments have teams of lawyers working to minimize payouts. Without strong legal representation, victims often accept lowball settlements or see their cases dismissed. Steering Law fights back by: 

• Immediately securing evidence before it disappears 
• Consulting medical and policing experts to validate claims 
• Negotiating aggressively or taking cases to trial when needed 

Southern California Residents: Get Your Free Case Evaluation 

If you suffered police misconduct in: 

• Orange County (Anaheim PD, OCSD) 
• Los Angeles County (LAPD, LASD) 
• Riverside or San Bernardino Counties 
• San Diego (SDPD, Sheriff’s Department) 

…we can help determine what your case is worth. Steering Law offers: 

✅ Free, no-obligation consultations 

✅ No fees unless we win your case 

✅ Decades of combined experience with police misconduct claims 

Key Takeaways: 

• Victims can recover medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and sometimes punitive damages
• Case values depend on injury severity, evidence strength, and life impact 
• Steering Law has secured multiple six- and seven-figure settlements 
• Act quickly – evidence disappears and deadlines apply 

Don’t let police misconduct go unpunished. Contact Steering Law today, visit our website for your free case review. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve.  Note: While we strive for maximum compensation, case results depend on specific facts and prior results don’t guarantee similar outcomes.

Racial profiling remains a persistent problem in California, with Black, Latino, and other minority drivers and pedestrians disproportionately targeted for stops, searches, and use of force. Proving racial discrimination in policing requires careful documentation and strategic legal action. If you believe you were profiled because of your race, you may have grounds for a civil rights lawsuit. 

At Steering Law, we specialize in fighting police misconduct and have successfully represented victims of racial profiling across Southern California. If you were unfairly targeted by law enforcement in Los Angeles County, Riverside, Orange County, San Bernardino, or San Diego, contact us immediately for a free case evaluation. 

What Constitutes Racial Profiling Under California Law? 

Racial profiling occurs when police stop, question, search, or detain someone primarily because of their race, ethnicity, or national origin—without reasonable suspicion of criminal activity. Common examples include: 

• Being pulled over for “driving while Black or Brown” without a valid reason 
• Being stopped and frisked in predominantly minority neighborhoods without cause 
• Facing harsher treatment (handcuffing, excessive force) compared to white individuals in similar situations 

While California passed the Racial and Identity Profiling Act (RIPA) in 2015 to track bias in policing, discriminatory practices persist. A 2023 report by the California Attorney General found that Black drivers were still stopped at 2.4 times the rate of white drivers relative to their population. 

How to Prove Racial Profiling in a Lawsuit 

Unlike other police misconduct claims, racial profiling cases often rely on patterns of behavior rather than a single incident. Key evidence includes: 

1. Statistical Data Showing Disparate Treatment 

Courts increasingly accept statistical proof that a police department or officer disproportionately targets minorities. This can include: 

• Department-wide stop data (required under RIPA) showing higher stop rates for minorities 
• Comparative evidence (e.g., white individuals in similar situations who were not stopped) 
• Officer-specific records revealing a history of targeting people of color 

For example, a 2021 UCLA study found that LAPD officers were more likely to stop and search Black and Latino drivers, even though white drivers were more likely to be found with contraband. Such data can be crucial in proving systemic bias. 

2. Officer Statements and Behavior 

Even without department-wide statistics, individual cases can succeed if the victim documents: 

• Explicit racial remarks (e.g., “You fit the description of a suspect”) 
• Inconsistent explanations for the stop (changing reasons suggest pretext) 
• Aggressive treatment compared to non-minorities in similar situations 

Body camera footage, witness statements, and police reports can all reveal discriminatory motives. 

Challenges in Racial Profiling Cases 

Despite strong evidence, these cases face hurdles: 

 1. Qualified Immunity Protections 

Officers often claim they had “reasonable suspicion,” even if their real motive was racial bias. Overcoming this requires showing that their actions violated clearly established anti-discrimination laws. 

 2. Missing or Withheld Evidence 

Some departments delay releasing bodycam footage or “lose” recordings that could prove bias. Immediate legal action is crucial to preserve evidence. 

 3. Difficulty Proving Intent 

Since most officers won’t admit to racism, plaintiffs must rely on circumstantial evidence (e.g., statistical disparities, inconsistent justifications for stops). 

How Steering Law Builds Strong Racial Profiling Cases 

Our firm has successfully challenged discriminatory policing by: 

• Obtaining and analyzing stop data to prove racial disparities 
• Using bodycam footage to expose contradictory officer statements 
• Working with civil rights experts to demonstrate patterns of bias 

We’ve secured significant settlements for victims of racial profiling, including cases where officers: 

✔ Stopped clients based on racial stereotypes 

✔ Used excessive force during discriminatory detentions 

✔ Falsely claimed “reasonable suspicion” to justify stops 

 What to Do If You’ve Been Racially Profiled 

1. Document Everything 

• Write down the officer’s name, badge number, and exact words 
• Note whether they gave a reason for the stop (and if it changed) 
• Get witness contact information 

2. Preserve Evidence 

• Request bodycam footage immediately (departments often delete it) 
• Save your clothing or vehicle if damaged during the encounter 

3. Contact a Lawyer Immediately 

• Racial profiling cases require fast action to secure data and footage 
• Even if you’re unsure about suing, a free consultation can clarify your rights 

Southern California Residents: Don’t Let Profiling Go Unchallenged 

If you were targeted because of your race in: 

• Los Angeles County (LAPD, LASD) 
• Orange County (Anaheim PD, OCSD) 
• Riverside or San Bernardino Counties 
• San Diego (SDPD, Sheriff’s Department) 

…you may have a claim. Steering Law offers: 

✅ Free, confidential case reviews 

✅ No fees unless we win your case 

✅ Immediate action to secure critical evidence 

Key Takeaways: 

• Racial profiling is illegal but remains widespread in California. 
• Statistical data and officer behavior are key to proving discrimination. 
• Act fast—bodycam footage and stop records may disappear. 
• Steering Law has successfully fought profiling cases across Southern California. 

Don’t wait—call Steering Law today or visit our website for a free consultation. Let us help you hold police accountable for discrimination.

If you’ve experienced police misconduct in California – whether excessive force, false arrest, or other civil rights violations – you have the right to file a formal complaint. This guide explains your options for reporting misconduct and building a strong case, with references to real California examples and outcomes.

Where to File Your Police Misconduct Complaint

Option 1: Internal Police Department Complaint

Every California law enforcement agency must have a process for investigating complaints against its officers. For example:

• The Los Angeles Police Commission receives about 1,200 complaints annually, yet sustained just 4% of them in 2021 according to their Annual Report.
• The San Francisco Department of Police Accountability reported a 12% sustain rate for complaints in 2022.

While required by law, internal investigations often favor officers. In the infamous Mario Woods case, San Francisco PD initially cleared officers in the 2015 shooting before public outcry forced reconsideration.

Option 2: External Oversight Agencies

For more impartial review, consider these California options:

1. California Department of Justice Civil Rights Division 

Handles patterns of serious misconduct. Currently investigating the Torrance Police Department over racist text messages.

2. Local Civilian Oversight Boards 

• Los Angeles Sheriff’s Civilian Oversight Commission 
• Oakland Police Commission 
• San Diego Community Review Board

These bodies helped secure reforms after the 2018 shooting of Stephon Clark in Sacramento, including California’s new deadly force standard (AB 392).

Critical Evidence for Your Complaint

1. Body Camera & Dashcam Footage

California law (SB 1421) requires release of police footage in misconduct cases. In 2019, bodycam video showed Antonio Valenzuela being placed in a fatal chokehold by Las Vegas police (similar to California cases), leading to policy changes.

How to Obtain Footage:

• Submit a California Public Records Act request
• Have an attorney file a preservation order

2. Witness Statements & Cell Phone Video

Bystander video proved crucial in:

• The 2014 shooting of Ezell Ford in LA (resulting in $1.5M settlement)
• 2019 arrest of Miles Hall in Walnut Creek ($4M settlement)

3. Medical Documentation

In the 2016 beating of Francis Pusok by San Bernardino deputies, medical records helped secure a $650,000 settlement. Always:

• Seek immediate medical care
• Photograph injuries
• Keep all treatment records

When Complaints Fail: Legal Options

If your complaint gets dismissed (as most do), you may need to file:

• Government Claim (required before suing under California law)
• Federal Civil Rights Lawsuit (42 U.S.C. § 1983)

For example, after internal complaints went nowhere, the family of Willie McCoy (fatally shot by Vallejo PD in 2019) filed a federal lawsuit that’s still pending.

Why You Need a Police Misconduct Attorney

Proving misconduct requires legal expertise. At Steering Law, we’ve helped clients with cases like:

• Excessive Force: Secured compensation for victims of police brutality
• False Arrest: Won dismissals and settlements for wrongfully detained clients
• Wrongful Death: Pursued justice for families of those killed by officers

View our case results to see how we’ve held law enforcement accountable.

Take Action Today

If you’ve experienced police misconduct:

1. File complaints both internally and with oversight boards
2. Preserve evidence immediately (footage disappears quickly)
3. Consult an attorney about your legal options

Don’t let police misconduct go unchallenged. Contact Steering Law today for a free, confidential case evaluation. Our civil rights attorneys will review your case and explain all available options.