Legal Question in Criminal Law in Massachusetts

Police officer forced written confession

My son went to police station voluntarily for questioning on a child molestation case. After 3 hours of questioning, my son maintained his innocense. Police officer refused to let him leave. He advised him that if he did not write a confession, he would put him in jail. My son did write and sign a confession that was dictated to him by the officer. My son was both physically and emotionally ill at the time. The police officer took advantage of this. Although my son verbally stated that he was doing this against his will and that he was innocent, unfortunately, he did not write that in his confession. He was also threatened to sign a statement saying that he was giving up his right to an attorney at that time. Child in question is 12 yr old sister of his girlfriend who turned him in because he would not allow her advances to him.


Asked on 8/03/00, 1:00 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Chester V. Shea III Law Offices of C.V.Shea III

Re: Police officer forced written confession

You need an attorney and you need one fast!!!!!!

Confessions are one of the most useful tolls of the police and district attorney's office and making sure it does not come in as evidence is extremely important. Get an attorney now!!!!!!

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Answered on 9/13/00, 8:31 am
Thomas Workman Law Offices of Thomas Workman

Re: Police officer forced written confession

In this kind of situation, delay that makes a difference is measured in hours, not days. You need to do whatever it takes to retain a criminal lawyer. Do not think that the Courts are going to be understanding because your son was "forced" to sign anything. The longer you wait, the more it looks like your son is trying to take back a valid confession. Do not delay. He could go to prison for a very long time.

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Answered on 9/13/00, 11:01 am


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