Can Police Investigate You for a Crime Without Telling You? 

 Posted on February 13, 2025 in Criminal Defense

The police can investigate you for a crime without telling you. In fact, this happens all the time. Many people think that if they were in trouble, the cops would have to let them know. That is not true. Police do not have to tell you that you are being watched, questioned, or even followed. If you suspect that you are under investigation, you need to be very careful about what you do and say.

If you think the police are looking into you, a Texas criminal defense lawyer can help protect your rights.

Signs That You Might Be Under Police Investigation

Most people do not realize they are under investigation until it is too late and they have been arrested and charged with a crime. Here are some signs that police might be watching you:

• People you know are questioned: If your friends, family, or coworkers tell you that police have been asking about you, that is a big sign you are being investigated.

• You notice unmarked police cars: Police sometimes use plain cars to watch people without being obvious. If you keep seeing the same car near your home or work, it could be surveillance.

• Cops try to talk to you casually: An officer might approach you in a friendly way, acting like they just want to chat. In reality, they are fishing for information.

• You get strange social media messages: Police sometimes use fake accounts to follow suspects and see what they say online.

• You receive a grand jury subpoena: If you get a letter telling you to testify before a grand jury, it likely means you or someone close to you is being investigated.

If any of these things are happening, do not ignore them. The police are not required to tell you what is going on, but they could very well be building a case against you.

What to Do If You Think You Are Being Investigated by Police

First, do not talk to the police without a lawyer. It does not matter if they say you are not in trouble. Anything you say can and will be used against you. Even if you think you are explaining yourself, you could actually be giving them evidence to use in court.

Second, stop posting about anything online, even if you think it might not be illegal. Police often check Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat for evidence.

Third, be careful who you talk to. Do not tell your friends that you think you are being investigated. You never know who might talk to the police to get themselves out of trouble.

Fourth, contact a criminal defense lawyer right away. A lawyer can find out if you are under investigation and advise you on how to protect yourself. The earlier you get legal help, the better your chances of avoiding charges or getting a lighter penalty.

Finally, if you are arrested, do not resist arrest. Go calmly with the police, follow instructions, and insist on having an attorney in the room with you before you say anything besides basic information like your name and date of birth.

Contact a Collin County, TX Criminal Defense Attorney

If you think you are being investigated, do not wait until you get arrested. A Plano, TX criminal defense lawyer at Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C. can help you understand your rights and take action before it is too late. Call 469-333-3333 today for a free consultation and find out how we can protect you.