What to do if I was called in by the police for questioning?
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What to do if I was called in by the police for questioning?
I gave my employer a month’s notice that i was leaving due to a relocation. Then, 3 days before my final day, I was terminated for reasons that were not disclosed to me. A few hours later, I received a phone call from the local police department. I missed their first call and then they called again later and I answered. There was an officer requesting me to come to the police station for questioning regarding theft from my workplace. I asked what the theft was about and what was stolen but the officer insisted that I come in for questioning and they wouldn’t disclose any more information over the phone. I’m currently out of town as I just finished moving to the other side of the state and don’t have any intention to go back to the town this happened in. I told the officer that I would contemplate coming in if I was given more information but would only do so if I retained an attorney before hand. Should I go in for questioning? Am I legally required to go in for their interview or can I tell them no? Would this potentially be obstructing a peace officer or obstruction of an investigation? If I decline, would I face any legal consequence?
Asked on November 21, 2017 under Criminal Law, Iowa
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 7 years ago | Contributor
Do not submit to police questioning without having legal representation. The fact is that you are not legally required to speak with them. And this true even if they show up to your house. They are experienced and trained in getting people to incriminate themselves. Again, consult with an attorney and do so ASAP.
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