Why Do People Confess to Crimes They Did Not Commit?

 Posted on February 22, 2023 in Criminal Defense

False confessions are a troubling phenomenon in the criminal justice system. It is a situation where a person confesses to a crime they did not commit. To many people, it is incomprehensible to imagine why someone would ever admit to a crime they did not commit; however, it happens more often than you might expect. Today, we are going to review the reasons why someone would ever make a false confession. If you are ever charged with committing a crime, do not hesitate to reach out and obtain the legal counsel of an experienced criminal defense attorney who will work to ensure that you understand your rights and exactly what you are up against. 

Four Reasons Someone May Make a False Confession

Firstly, false confessions can result from coercion or duress. Police officers may use intimidation tactics or even threats to get a confession from a suspect. Sometimes, the person being interrogated may feel they have no other option but to confess, even if they know they are innocent. They may feel overwhelmed, scared, and helpless, believing confessing will make the situation go away or alleviate their suffering.

False confessions can also arise from psychological factors. Some individuals may be susceptible to suggestion or manipulation by authority figures. They may have low self-esteem or confidence in their judgment, and as a result, they may agree with the interrogator’s version of events rather than their memory of what happened. In some cases, the interrogator may introduce false information or evidence that convinces the person that they committed the crime, even if they did not.

Another issue that leads to false confessions is lack of knowledge about one’s rights as a defendant. People may not fully understand their rights, the potential consequences of their actions, or the implications of a confession. They may believe that confessing will result in a lighter sentence or that they can explain their innocence later. However, once a confession is made, it can be difficult to retract and can have severe consequences for the person’s future. 

Sometimes, false confessions can occur due to mental health issues or cognitive impairments. People with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder may be more susceptible to giving false confessions. Cognitive impairments such as learning disabilities or brain injuries can also affect a person’s ability to understand the situation and make rational decisions. 

Contact a Cook County Criminal Defense Attorney

If you or a loved one have been charged with a criminal offense, it is in your best interest to contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Contact the highly knowledgeable Frisco criminal defense lawyers at Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C.. Call 469-333-3333 for a free consultation.

Source:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/decoding-madness/202111/10-reasons-people-admit-crimes-they-didn-t-commit