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Communication Rights for the Deaf or Hard of Hearing
The MPDC is providing the following list of "communications rights" so that members of the deaf or hard of hearing community might be aware of their rights when communicating with members of the Department. In most situations, you are free to choose any form of communication that allows you to interact effectively with the police, including the use of notes, gestures, or available printed materials.
- Suspect or Under Arrest
If you are deaf or hard of hearing and are a suspect or are under arrest, you have the right to be assisted by a qualified interpreter. An interpreter will be provided to explain your Constitutional rights (called the Miranda warning), which allow you to refuse to answer any questions and to have a lawyer with you before and during any questioning.
- Victim or Witness
If you are a victim or witness of a crime, you may choose the form of communications that you prefer, including a qualified interpreter, within the limits of time and convenience that might be applicable to the situation.
There are now teletype (TTY) devices for deaf communication installed at all principal police facilities to improve police communication with deaf or hard of hearing citizens.
Deaf and hard of hearing residents should continue to dial 9-1-1 for reporting police, fire and medical emergencies, and 3-1-1 for reporting police non-emergencies, general inquires, and other non-life threatening situations. Both 9-1-1 and 3-1-1 are TTY-compatible.
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