It is often understandable that police need to be able to carry out their work without fearing for their personal safety. Therefore, if police feel that their safety is in jeopardy, they can take extreme measures, including the use of force. Once the situation is under control, anyone threatening the police can face criminal charges.
In Oregon, a 33-year-old Hillsboro man is being held on $250,000 bond after he supposedly threatened police. In this case, the man has been charged with six misdemeanor charges following an incident at his apartment. According to police, they were called to his home by his girlfriend who claimed he was suicidal and armed.
Police say that when they arrived at the man's apartment a two hour standoff started. During this standoff, police claim that the man threatened them with a gun. This action lead police to fire their guns and bean bags to apprehend the man. The man's gun was really only a pellet gun. Eventually, he was arrested and charged with menacing and interfering with a peace officer and for resisting arrest. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Despite the fact that this man has never had a history of violent behavior, has no criminal record and has had steady employment, these misdemeanor charges are still being taken very seriously. He could face criminal penalties if he is found guilty. Until he can post 10 percent of his bail -- which a judge refused to lower -- or the criminal proceedings are over, the man will have to stay in jail, which could disrupt his normal life and lead to other social and economic consequences.
As this case shows, criminal charges, even misdemeanor charges, can have a big impact on a person's life. They should be taken seriously to minimize potential consequences.
Source: The Oregonian, "Hillsboro police shooting: Adam Olsen's release hearing offers character details," Emily E. Smith, Sep. 27, 2013
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