You were stopped on the street without explanation. Others weren’t. You were questioned, searched, or treated with suspicion but no one could clearly say why.
If it felt like your race, religion, or background was the reason you were singled out, you are not imagining things. And you are not alone.
At Roger Victor Archibald, PLLC, we have worked with individuals throughout New York City who were subjected to unjust stops, searches, and intimidation simply because of how they look or where they’re from. These are not just unpleasant experiences. They may be violations of your civil rights.
This guide is here to help you understand what racial profiling looks like in practice, how the law protects you, and what steps you can take to protect yourself and your future.
Recognizing Racial Profiling: What It Can Look Like in NYC
Racial profiling is not always loud or aggressive. Sometimes, it shows up in quieter ways, such as an unexplained stop, a dismissive tone, or a question that seems unrelated to anything you were doing.
It might look like:
- Being pulled over without clear cause, even though you were driving lawfully.
- Getting questioned while walking in your neighborhood, despite no sign of wrongdoing.
- Hearing a vague mention of a “description” that seems more like an excuse than a real reason.
- Being treated with more suspicion or force than others in the same situation.
- Having your personal belongings, such as your bag or vehicle, searched without a clear legal basis.
In these moments, it’s easy to feel confused, shaken, or unsure whether what happened was even legal. But if your identity seemed to play a larger role than your actions, that stop may not have been lawful.
Your Legal Rights Under Federal and New York Law
Racial profiling is not just unfair treatment. It may also violate multiple legal protections under federal, state, and local law. These laws exist to protect your right to move freely without being targeted based on your race, religion, or ethnicity.
Federal Protections
The Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures. Police must have a specific, factual reason to stop or search you. If there was no clear cause and the stop appeared to be based on who you are rather than what you were doing, that may have been unconstitutional.
The Fourteenth Amendment guarantees equal protection under the law. Treating someone differently based on race or ethnicity may violate this protection, especially when it leads to harsher treatment, unwarranted suspicion, or denial of fair process.
Under Section 1983 of the Civil Rights Act, individuals can sue public officials, including police officers, for violating constitutional rights. If you were targeted because of your identity, you may be able to pursue compensation through a civil rights claim.
New York’s Local Laws Offer Added Protection
New York State and New York City each have their own civil rights laws that offer added protection. The New York State Human Rights Law prohibits discrimination based on race, religion, national origin, and other protected characteristics in employment, housing, public accommodations, and more. The New York City Human Rights Law, which applies within the five boroughs, is considered one of the most comprehensive anti-discrimination laws in the country. It often provides broader remedies than state or federal law and may allow for stronger legal relief in cases of racial profiling or discrimination by public officials.
What to Do If You Believe You Were Profiled
If you believe you were stopped, questioned, or mistreated based on your race, religion, or background, your next steps matter. Acting quickly and thoughtfully can help protect your rights and strengthen any future legal claim.
Document What Happened
As soon as you are able, write down everything you remember. Include the date, time, and location. Describe what the officers said and did, and note whether you saw any badge numbers, vehicle IDs, or names.
Seek Medical or Emotional Support
If the experience left you injured or emotionally shaken, consider seeing a doctor, therapist, or counselor. These visits can support your healing and may also serve as documentation if you pursue a legal claim.
Preserve Any Available Evidence
If you or someone nearby recorded the incident, save the video or audio. Make note of surveillance cameras from local businesses or nearby residences. These recordings can be critical in supporting your version of events.
Speak with a Civil Rights Attorney Before Filing a Complaint
You have the right to file a complaint with the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB), which investigates allegations of police misconduct. That being said, filing a complaint without legal guidance could affect your ability to bring a legal claim later. It is often best to consult a NYC civil rights attorney first to understand your full range of options.
Don’t Wait to Take Legal Action
In many cases, legal deadlines come quickly. You may need to file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the incident. A civil rights attorney can help you meet that deadline, gather the right evidence, and determine whether a lawsuit is appropriate for your situation.
How Roger Victor Archibald, PLLC Supports Clients Facing Racial Profiling
At Roger Victor Archibald, PLLC, we work with individuals throughout Brooklyn and New York City who have been subjected to unconstitutional policing. We understand that the harm is not only physical. It can also be emotional, social, and deeply personal.
When you contact our office, we take the time to hear your story and explain your rights. If your case qualifies for legal action, we guide you through each step with transparency and care. We focus on protecting your dignity and holding public institutions accountable when trust has been broken.
Depending on the facts of your case, you may be able to pursue compensation for:
- Emotional trauma and psychological harm
- Reputational damage
- Lost income or missed employment opportunities
- Medical expenses or therapy
- Violations of your civil rights
Every case is unique. That’s why we give it the focused attention it deserves.
Talk to Someone Who Will Listen
Being profiled by police can make you feel isolated and powerless. But you have legal rights, and you do not have to go through this on your own.
If you believe your rights were violated due to racial profiling by the NYPD or another law enforcement agency, contact Roger Victor Archibald, PLLC today. We offer private, no-obligation consultations to help you explore your options.
Our firm proudly represents individuals throughout New York City, including Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, The Bronx, and Staten Island. Whether the incident occurred in Harlem, Jamaica, Crown Heights, Flatbush, or the South Bronx, we’re here to help you take the next step.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Every situation is unique. Please consult a licensed attorney to discuss the specific facts of your case.