The way individuals connect has changed as a result of technological improvements, particularly the development of social networking sites. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and others let us interact with people, share information and photographs about our lives, and facilitate networking on a professional level. Social media does, however, have a negative side, particularly in relation to the legal system.

It's a common misconception that locking your social media accounts will prevent anyone from accessing or viewing your personal information. Your social media information may be used by law enforcement and prosecutors in criminal investigations, including those involving allegations of drug usage. The best course of action if you have been detained on criminal charges is not to post any social media posts at all.

Contact Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 to talk to a criminal defense attorney who can help you. In the meantime, read about the specific ways posting on social media could harm you.

They could find evidence of your crime on your social media posts

Law enforcement or investigators hired by the prosecution to search for any proof that substantiates their allegations against you. For instance, if you were accused with possessing narcotics, they would search your social media accounts for images and postings that demonstrate you were in possession of or using drugs. They will also look at the social media accounts of your friends, family, and other internet connections in addition to your own.

They can check out your alibi

The prosecution will look further to verify whatever alibi you offered, so they are also trying to disprove it. Posts, comments, and images on your social media accounts as well as those of others may contain details about your whereabouts in relation to the crime you are being charged with.

They can establish relationships with people you are close to

Inquiring about your activities and whereabouts from those close to you is a part of the investigative process. They may create phony profiles to communicate with relatives, friends, and coworkers if you are a suspect in a case. These connections can occasionally only be used to passively combine information. In other cases, detectives may speak with people directly to get any information they can use against you in court.

They can identify other suspects and witnesses

When searching for witnesses and other suspects, the police and the prosecution also utilize social media to communicate with people they might not know. The prosecution might utilize social media to look for people who saw a crime or took part in it. For instance, if you were charged with selling narcotics at a party, they might look for people who bought from you.

If you are facing criminal charges, you should talk to a criminal defense attorney. You can do so easily by calling Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 for a free legal consultation.