If it appears that the police have you as a suspect for a crime, one thing you might well do is panic. In that panic, you might take all sorts of steps to try and reduce the chance they arrest you. This is true whether or not you actually did anything wrong.
You need to be very careful, though, as some of the actions that might spring to mind could actually worsen your situation, rather than improve it. Here are a few things to avoid.
1. Destroying evidence
People have done all sorts of things, from throwing guns into a river, to wiping their phones and computers or setting fire to clothes or even their vehicle. All this because they think that the police might use those things to build a case against them. Destroying evidence can lead to its own charges, even if you do not end up charged with the crime you are suspected of.
2. Telling others what to say or not say
Some people start scrolling through their contacts to tell certain people that if the police ask them about something, they are to say a specific thing. Others suggest to the person that if the police ask them, they should deny all knowledge.
Things such as this could be seen as an attempt to pervert the course of justice or witness intimidation, neither of which a court will view favorably.
3. Telling all to the police
Another mistake people make is talking to the police. Some even go to the station and make a confession, while others just give honest answers when the police knock on their door. While you should never lie to the police, you also do not need to answer their questions or give them information. Your words could be taken out of context to convict you, sometimes even if you are entirely innocent.
Seeking legal guidance is your best course of action if you fear you are under investigation. It can help you avoid errors and build a defense if necessary.
