⚖ The Advocate
Criminal & Arrest Rights

Facing a Violent Crime

A victim of a violent crime is being pressured by bystanders or authorities for not fighting back against the perpetrators.

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The Situation

What They Said

“I am not resisting; I am complying to protect my life.”
This is said by a victim immediately following a violent crime to bystanders or investigators. It puts the user at a disadvantage because it invites victim-blaming from those who believe property should be defended at all costs, potentially leading to social or professional scrutiny.
The Fallacy

The Duty to Defend Property Fallacy

This argument falsely assumes that a person has a legal obligation to risk their life to protect personal property. In general legal principles, there is no requirement to engage in a violent confrontation with criminals. The law typically prioritizes the preservation of human life over the protection of material assets.

What the Law Says

Your Legal Foundation

Código de Procedimiento Penal
art. 84 del Código de Procedimiento Penal — Right to not incriminate oneself
“ARTÍCULO 84º.- (DERECHOS DEL IMPUTADO). Toda autoridad que intervenga en el proceso se asegurará de que el imputado conozca, los derechos que la Constitución Política del Estado, las Convenciones y Tratados internacionales vigentes y este Código le reconocen. El imputado desde el inicio de su captura tendrá derecho a ser asistido y a entrevistarse en privado con su defensor. Si el imputado está privado de libertad, el encargado de su custodia transmitirá al juez las peticiones u observaciones que aquél formule dentro de las veinticuatro horas siguientes y facilitará en todo momento su comunicación con el defensor.”
Even if you are a victim of a hijacking, if you are later treated as an imputado (accused), you have the right to be informed of your rights and to have private assistance from your defender from the moment of capture. Your statement 'I am complying to protect my life' should not be used to blame you, as the law ensures your rights are protected regardless of the circumstances.
What Scripture Says

God's Word on This

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“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?”
This verse reinforces that human life holds inherent value far exceeding that of material possessions, supporting the legal stance that one should not sacrifice their life for property.
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You Know the Law — But Do You Know What to Say?
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What They'll Say Next

Common Counter-Arguments

After you respond, they may push back with these arguments. Members get the full rebuttal for each.

They might say: “You were not under arrest, so Article 84 does not apply to you.”
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They might say: “Your statement 'I am complying' is an admission of guilt.”
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