Excessive force by police can be a defense to resisting arrest charges in Rhode Island. If officers used force beyond what was reasonably necessary for the situation, your defensive response may not constitute criminal resistance. Body camera footage, witness testimony, and the documented injuries are critical evidence in excessive force defenses. You may also have a separate civil rights claim against the officers and the department under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, which can be pursued by a civil rights attorney while the criminal defense proceeds. Document any injuries with photographs and medical records immediately. The criminal and civil tracks need coordinated representation by counsel who understands both.
