General

Investigative Detention or Custody – Why Does it Matter?

By Jason Dunkle on G+ In a prior blog, I discussed interactions between police and citizens, noted the distinction between a mere encounter and an investigative detention, and used typical Penn State Underage Drinking investigations at a Penn State tailgate as examples of both. There is a third type of police-citizen encounter that occurs when… view more

Right to Vote & Bear Arms – Not a Right for Some Convicted Felons

By Jason Dunkle on G+ Today is election day, a day in which many Americans are taking advantage of their constitutional rights and casting a vote for the politician of their choice, or perhaps casting a vote for the lesser of two evils. While most U.S. citizens believe that rights set forth in the U.S…. view more

“Finders Keepers, Losers Weepers” – Not So in Pennsylvania

By Jason Dunkle on G+ I am sure that most of our parents told us the old adage “finders keepers, losers weepers,” basically telling us to take care of our possessions because if we lost or misplaced them, the finder got to keep them. Many of us understand basic human nature and understand that if… view more

DUI Charges Filed For Driving Motorized Cart in Walmart

By Jason Dunkle on G+ A Florida man recently decided to take a joyride through a Walmart store on a motorized shopping cart while helping himself to alcohol from the shelves without  paying for it. The man was charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) and Retail Theft. Grading of Pennsylvania Retail Theft Charges The… view more

Former Pennsylvania Judge Charged With Stealing Cocaine Evidence

By Jason Dunkle on G+ A former western Pennsylvania judge recently was charged with theft and drug possession by the Pennsylvania State Police after allegedly stealing cocaine that had been submitted by prosecutors in drug cases. In drug possession and drug delivery cases, the prosecuting attorney must bring the drugs to court and present it… view more

Centre County Judge Reviews Miranda Issue in State College Assault Case

By Jason Dunkle on G+ A Centre County judge recently considered whether or not to suppress statements made by two people to a police officer in a State College assault investigation. The officer responded to the reported fight in the wee hours of the morning in downtown State College, and, after arriving on scene, witnesses… view more