Crafter Man
Junior Member
Question about the "right to remain silent" and "obstruction of justice."
Let's say the police suspect criminal activity is occurring at my neighbor's house. They also suspect I might have witnessed the criminal activity.
The police knock on my door to ask me some questions. (And again, I am not under suspicion – my neighbors are.) For whatever reason I refuse to answer any questions.
Can the police charge me with "obstruction of justice" for refusing to answer any questions?
A law enforcement officer on another board said he would arrest me and charge me with "obstruction of justice" for refusing to answer questions.
In such a situation, it is my understanding that I can only be charged with obstruction of justice if I lie to the officer. But the LEO on the other board claims I can be charged if I remain silent.
I don't think this is right. What is the law on this?
(Also, please let me know if you’re a judge or lawyer.)
Thanks
Let's say the police suspect criminal activity is occurring at my neighbor's house. They also suspect I might have witnessed the criminal activity.
The police knock on my door to ask me some questions. (And again, I am not under suspicion – my neighbors are.) For whatever reason I refuse to answer any questions.
Can the police charge me with "obstruction of justice" for refusing to answer any questions?
A law enforcement officer on another board said he would arrest me and charge me with "obstruction of justice" for refusing to answer questions.
In such a situation, it is my understanding that I can only be charged with obstruction of justice if I lie to the officer. But the LEO on the other board claims I can be charged if I remain silent.
I don't think this is right. What is the law on this?
(Also, please let me know if you’re a judge or lawyer.)
Thanks