Tag: Police Misconduct

$40,000 Settlement for Unwarranted Suspicion in Boone County

In a noteworthy demonstration of legal expertise and dedication to upholding citizens’ rights, GRL’s Government Accountability Division recently marked a significant victory in Boone County, Iowa. The division secured a $40,000 settlement for a Boone County man, unjustly ensnared in the legal system due to an unconstitutional traffic stop by a Boone County Sheriff’s Deputy. This case, emblematic of GRL’s commitment to challenging governmental overreach and defending constitutional rights, not only underscores the firm’s prowess in legal advocacy but also highlights the broader implications of law enforcement practices on individual liberties. The incident unfolded when a Boone County Deputy, operating […]

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$154,900 Settlement for Wrongful Arrest

Ankeny, Polk County, Iowa.  GRL’s Government Accountability Division obtained a settlement of $154,900 for an Ankeny man who was wrongfully arrested by Ankeny Police Department earlier this year.  While the financial compensation was substantial for GRL’s client, it was not the most incredible part of this case. Apologies, especially sincere apologies, simply do not happen when a citizen accuses a government entity of misconduct or violating their constitutional rights.  Deflection, denial, victim-blame, and excuse-making tend to be the government’s go-to approaches to these types of cases. They never, ever admit that they were wrong.  However, in this case, in a […]

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Knowledgeable and Empathetic Attorney that Fights for You

Mr. Rehkemper accepted my case when many other attorneys I consulted with expressed discouragement. He was direct and honest from the start and kept me well informed throughout the lawsuit proceedings. Mr. Rehkemper is empathetic and it shows in how he handles your case and treats his clients. Don’t mistake his kindness as weakness though…Mr. Rehkemper can be scrappy! He has all the characteristics you’d want in an attorney fully prepared to represent their client. I will always be thankful for how he assisted me during a rough time. He was successful for me and I would recommend him to […]

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Police Misconduct in Iowa – Factors and Solutions

Police misconduct exists in Iowa.  Racial disparities in Iowa’s criminal and civil justice system exist.  They are real.  They are problematic.  Unfortunately, neither police misconduct nor racial disparity in our justice systems are likely to undergo real, substantive reform anytime in the near future.  The reason?  The law, as it exists, fosters, breeds, and encourages misconduct and disparity. The courts are charged with interpreting and enforcing the laws as they exist.  The courts have no power to change the direction substantively.  While constitutional protections can be interpreted by our courts to invalidate outdated or overtly inequitable legislation, the Iowa courts […]

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