how police treat VIPs in murder investigations

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One of my characters (Jason) is a "VIP." He is very good friends with and/or related to the mayor and police chief in his town, as well as the state governor. He probably also knows the president of the United States personally.

Because of this Jason has never had any problems with law enforcement that he couldn't have taken care of. He has not done anything other than misdemeanors.

Then some weird things happen and he hires a group of trained hounds to follow a scent trail that starts on his property. He follows along.

At the same time, at his request, the police chief sends a couple of police officers to canvas his neighborhood to find out if anyone saw anything strange. New graffiti-ed gang signs are found. They are from a extreemely violent gang that isn't local. The town where Jason lives has about 50,000 people and is far away from larger cities, so there is little gang activity normally.

Jason, the dog handlers, and the hounds find a woman who was recently killed at the end of the scent trail.

I'm wondering if he would be suspected of the murder and if so, how it would be handled in light of his VIP status.

Thanks!
 
Drachen Jager

Drachen Jager

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He would probably be a suspect, and the police would almost certainly question him but they would be very cordial. Unless they had significant evidence they would likely not 'interrogate' him, just a polite conversation to make sure they have all their facts straight if you know what I mean.

So, in essence, they would investigate him, but they'd do it in such a way to make sure they didn't offend him if possible. At least not until they had something hard to go on.
 
areteus

areteus

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Depends what evidence exists, surely? He may be suspected but they cannot make any move to arrest him unless they have definite evidence they can present to the DA to back up thier claims - such as his DNA or fingerprints on the body.

Now, as for what would happen when he was arrested... in this day and age little different to anyone else (though he may complain of being due more if he believes that). He may, however, get a visit from some of the high ups like the mayor who may promise to help him/ask him questions/assure him it is all a mistake and will be sorted soon (whichever is most appropriate)
 
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