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SCOTUS Makes it Easier to Sue Police when Criminal Charges are Dropped

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Image copyright: Sarah Silbiger/Bloomberg [via The Washington Post]

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The Spin

Narrative A

This is a huge win for civil rights. Those who have been wrongly prosecuted now can take action. Though cops still have many protections, such as qualified immunity, it will be easier to pursue corrupt police and hold them accountable for their actions in the line of duty.

The Root

Narrative B

SCOTUS has combined a Fourth Amendment unreasonable seizure claim and a common-law malicious-prosecution claim, along with lower-court rulings, to formulate an off-base and confusing decision.

Law & Crime