Illegal Strip Searching of Prison Inmates
New Jersey and Pennsylvania Attorneys for Illegal Strip Search of Prisoners
What is a strip search?
A strip search is the removal or partial removal of clothing, with a subsequent search of persons body, clothing and/or personal effects.) Police, corrections officers, and guards perform strip searchers to check for weapons or other contraband such as drugs, cell phones, or explicit material.
A body cavity search involves physical inspection of the anus or vagina. A body cavity search may be performed as part of or in addition to a strip search.
Grounds for a Lawsuit for Illegal Strip Searching of Prisoners
Strip searches are a routine part of prison life, but this does not mean they are always necessary or justified. Female inmates are often subjected to strip searches by male corrections officers, which may in itself be sufficient grounds for a lawsuit. Another potential ground for a civil lawsuit is when strip searches (of either male or female prisoners) are conducted by multiple guards at the same time.
You may also be able to sue for damages if you were strip searched after you were arrested, but before you were convicted of a crime if the police or corrections officers did not have a “reasonable suspicion” that you were carrying weapons or drugs.
In 2010, there was a class-action ruling against New York City in favor of plaintiffs on behalf of thousands of people who were frisked at Rikers Island jail between 1999 and 2007.
The perpetrators in the class action suit had been arrested (but not convicted) of nonviolent misdemeanors such as turnstile jumping and failing to pay child support, yet were still subjected to humiliating strip searches. In the ruling, two women received additional damages for being forced to endure gynecological exams.
Strip Searching and Prisoners Rights
Prisoners do not have the right to refuse to be stripped searched, however, law officials are not allowed to conduct a strip search as a means of humiliation or discipline and must have a valid reason or reasonable suspicion to perform a strip search.
Strip searches must be conducted in accordance with federal and state laws.
Pennsylvania and New Jersey Attorneys for Illegal Strip Searching of Prisoners
Have your civil rights been violated? Our lawyers can help.
From our offices in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, our law firm has more than 25 years of experience protecting victims of police brutality and prison neglect. We have a long track record of successfully achieving justice for our clients. We are prepared to prove fault and obtain maximum compensation in state or federal court in Pennsylvania or New Jersey.
We are committed to preserving your civil rights in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Contact our law firm today to schedule a free initial case evaluation with a skilled trial attorney. Philadelphia Metro: 215.567.7600 ● Toll Free: 1-800-731-4687
