When the police question you about a crime, there's a good chance it's because they think you did it. Whether you did or not, it can be a scary situation to be in. Merely being there makes it more likely you are charged with the crime. One of the reasons for this is that you are more likely to either confess or say something that helps the police tie you to the crime.

The police have numerous tactics at their disposal to get people to confess or give them information. The limits as to what they can legally do are further than many people realize. Many people are surprised to learn that the police are allowed to lie to those they are questioning.

Why would the police lie to you?

Imagine the following situation. The police arrest you and your friend on suspicion of robbing a local gas station. They take you to the station and question you separately, making sure the two of you do not get to talk with each other at any time.

If the officer just asks you whether you did it, you might continue to say no, you did not. If they leave you, then return and tell you your friend has just confessed, you might think twice about holding out with your denial.

Even if you did not commit the crime, you might think there is no point continuing to deny it because your friend's confession will be enough to send you both to jail.

Your friend might not have said anything of the sort. They may be continuing to deny their involvement just like you. But you have no way of knowing that. The police may have lied about them confessing to trick you into doing so.

While the police are allowed to lie, there are many things they are not allowed to do. Getting legal help to determine whether or not the police acted appropriately could be crucial if you face criminal charges.

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