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Communication Rights
for the Deaf or Hard of Hearing
The MPDC is
providing the following list of "communications rights"
so that members of the deaf or hard of hearing community might be
aware of their rights when communicating with members of the Department.
In most situations, you are free to choose any form of communication
that allows you to interact effectively with the police, including
the use of notes, gestures, or available printed materials.
- Suspect
or Under Arrest
If you are deaf or hard of hearing and are a suspect or are under
arrest, you have the right to be assisted by a qualified interpreter.
An interpreter will be provided to explain your Constitutional
rights (called the Miranda warning), which allow you to refuse
to answer any questions and to have a lawyer with you before and
during any questioning.
- Victim
or Witness
If you are a victim or witness of a crime, you may choose the
form of communications that you prefer, including a qualified
interpreter, within the limits of time and convenience that might
be applicable to the situation.
There are now
teletype (TTY) devices for deaf communication installed at all principal
police facilities to improve police communication with deaf or hard
of hearing citizens.
Deaf and hard
of hearing residents should continue to dial 9-1-1 for reporting
police, fire and medical emergencies, and 3-1-1 for reporting police
non-emergencies, general inquires, and other non-life threatening
situations. Both 9-1-1 and 3-1-1 are TTY-compatible.
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