When someone falls victim to police brutality, misconduct, or civil rights violations in Des Moines, they deserve justice for the harm police or other law enforcement officers—like United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents—have done. The Des Moines police brutality lawyers at our personal injury law firm are committed to helping victims of police misconduct in Des Moines fight for the justice and compensation they deserve.
What Is Des Moines Police or ICE Misconduct?
Misconduct by law enforcement occurs when officers from agencies like the Des Moines Police Department or ICE violate your constitutional or civil rights. These violations can include excessive force, false arrest, unlawful searches, malicious prosecution, retaliation, or discriminatory enforcement. A police misconduct attorney can help you determine if your rights were violated under Iowa law or the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution (protection from illegal search and more).
How Common Is Police Misconduct in Des Moines?
Police Scorecard evaluates police departments across violence, accountability, funding, and enforcement. For the Des Moines Police Department, the Scorecard shows 8 people were killed by the police from 2013–2023—higher than 45% of U.S. departments when adjusted per arrest—and records 9 civilian misconduct complaints in 2017, with 44% ruled in favor of civilians.
How to File a Complaint
Victims have rights and can seek accountability through official oversight bodies. Depending on the agency involved, you can file a complaint at the local or federal level.
Des Moines Police Department Actions
The Des Moines Police Department’s Office of Professional Standards oversees the complaint system.
25 E. 1st Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50309
Phone: 515-283-4816
The Iowa Civil Rights Commission investigates claims of discrimination by government agencies.
400 East 14th Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50309
Phone: 515-281-4121
Federal Agent Misconduct Actions
The Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General (DHS OIG) hotline: this independent watchdog investigates fraud, waste, abuse, and misconduct within DHS and its agencies—including ICE.
Common Types of Misconduct Cases
Actions that may fail to respect an individual’s rights can include:
- Excessive use of force: more force than reasonably necessary
- False arrest: detained without probable cause of a crime
- Illegal search or seizure: a search without a warrant or due process
- Malicious prosecution: charges filed without cause that are later dismissed
- Police shootings: wrongful firearm discharge causing harm
- Failure to intervene: an officer doesn’t stop another’s misconduct
- Recording retaliation: being punished for lawfully filming police
- Racial profiling: stops or searches based on race or ethnicity
- Denial of medical care: withholding needed care while in custody
- ICE misconduct: warrantless raids, resisting arrest charges, unlawful detainers, and excessive force
How to Get Help If You Are Injured by a Des Moines Police Officer
If you or a loved one suffered serious injuries due to the brutality or misconduct of Des Moines law enforcement officials, take these steps to protect your rights:
- Seek medical attention for your injuries and keep all records.
- Preserve any evidence, such as photos, videos, and contact information for witnesses.
- Do not provide a recorded statement to investigators without legal counsel present.
- Contact a police brutality attorney in Des Moines to understand your legal options.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit in Iowa?
Federal civil rights claims under 42 U.S.C. § 1983 generally follow the state’s personal injury statute of limitations. In Iowa, you typically have two years (614.1 Period) from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit.
If you have experienced police misconduct, you are not alone. Contact a police brutality lawyer in our Des Moines law firm today to schedule a free consultation to discuss how to protect your rights.
(312) 223-1700