Who Must Read the Miranda Rights to a Suspect |
Both state and federal law enforcement agents have to read you your rights before they can question you in custody. This includes: • Police and highway patrol officers • Sheriffs and • FBI, DEA, ATF, and other federal agents • Park rangers • Probation and parole officers The only people likely to have you in custody who don’t have to say the Miranda warnings are private security staff (security guards, rent-a-cops). These security guards sometimes have fancy uniforms and badges, and carry guns, so it’s not always easy to tell them from real police. You should always invoke your rights, whether or not you’re dealing with a real law enforcement agent. It won’t hurt you if you say the Magic Words to a private security guard. The worst that can happen is that he’ll make fun of you. And you’ll at least have reminded yourself of your own best strategy, by saying: I’m going to remain silent. I would like to see a lawyer. |
