You have the right to remain silent if the police want to question you. Should you exercise this even if you are innocent?
While the common thought is your innocence should abscond any mistakes you make when speaking to the police, this may prove false. Before becoming forthright with an officer, you may want to stop and consider how it may backfire.
The police believe you did something wrong
The police do not make it a practice to ask innocent people questions about a crime. While you may believe it is not a big deal that an officer is speaking to you, remember there is a reason. The police did not choose you at random to question. Therefore, anything you say may come back against you.
Any lie you tell may reinforce their case
You may not have anything to do with a crime, but you may decide not to tell the whole truth to the police. For example, if you panic and lie about your whereabouts for a given time, the police will find out. When they do, it may further the officer’s suspicion. A white lie may destroy your credibility.
A coincidence could convict you
Even innocent people may have some coincidental tie to a crime. If you answer all the questions truthfully, some element may connect you to the crime or the victim. Should the police not have any other suspects and want to close a case, they may decide to continue pursuing you and build a case around coincidences you volunteered.
Do not set yourself up for a further battle in court. Remain politely silent in the face of police questions for your protection.