Illinois Prohibits Using Deceptive Interrogation Tactics on Juveniles
When a young person is accused of a criminal offense, he or she is often less equipped to deal with the situation than an older person may be. Teenagers and young adults may be more easily influenced by others and may not have a clear understanding of their legal rights. This can be a major problem when a young person is charged with a criminal offense such as theft, assault, illegal possession of a firearm, or drug possession.
Contrary to popular belief, police can and do lie to suspects during interrogations. Police may claim that they have evidence against the suspect or that a friend of the suspect implicated him or her in a crime even if it is not true. Officers may also imply that if the suspect confesses, he or she will be granted leniency or a lighter sentence–even though police officers are not the ones who determine sentencing.
Many people believe that these types of interrogation tactics greatly increase the chances of a false confession. In 2021, Governor JB Pritzker signed a new bill prohibiting deceptive interrogation techniques when dealing with juveniles under the age of 17.
Police Are Not Allowed to Lie to Minors Accused of Crimes
Studies show that minors are two to three times more likely to confess to a crime they did not commit. They may confess because they think it is the best way to get out of the situation or because they are simply exhausted by a taxing interrogation and want it to end.
To address this issue, Illinois became the first state in the nation to prohibit deceptive interrogation tactics during juvenile interrogations. Under the new law, police officers are no longer allowed to lie, falsely imply that evidence exists against a suspect, or promise leniency in exchange for a confession.
However, this does not mean that a juvenile criminal suspect should freely answer questions during an interrogation. Minors have the same right to remain silent as adult criminal suspects, and staying silent is often the best way to avoid self-incrimination. Teenagers should not answer any questions until they have had a chance to discuss their case with a qualified attorney.
Contact our Joliet Juvenile Criminal Defense Lawyers If Your Child Was Arrested
If you or your child were arrested and charged with a crime, you need an attorney who knows the Illinois juvenile justice system and has the experience to build a solid defense case. Our tenacious Will County criminal defense attorneys are highly experienced in criminal defense cases. We handle everything from first-time DUIs to violent felonies. Call Reeder & Brown, P.C. at 815-885-5980 for a free, confidential initial consultation.
Sources:
https://www.newsweek.com/illinois-becomes-first-state-ban-lying-minors-police-interrogations-1610442
https://www.illinois.gov/news/press-release.23581.html
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