How to find the name and badge number of a police officer – If you’ve been brutalized or mistreated by police, one of the first barriers to justice is simply identifying who did it. Many victims don’t realize how difficult this can become after the encounter—especially when law enforcement refuses to release officer names, citing things like Marcy’s Law or “pending investigations.” But there are still ways to uncover the truth. Here are a few powerful methods that can help you identify the officers involved in your case:
⚠️ Disclaimer: We are not lawyers, doctors, or licensed mental health professionals. The information in this article is based on personal experience and is intended for general guidance, education, and empowerment. It is not a substitute for professional legal, medical, or psychological advice. Please consult qualified professionals for support specific to your situation.
Introduction
Unbroken Smile was born out of a nightmare: After calling 911 for help, Brittany Chrishawn was assaulted by police officers, suffering broken teeth, permanent nerve damage, and a false arrest that nearly cost her a decade of freedom. But she fought back — and won.
The Unbroken Smile movement and forthcoming documentary are rooted in resilience, exposure, and transformation. This blog series shares key lessons Brittany learned so others can better navigate — and survive — the justice system.
5 Helpful Tips to Find the Names of the Police Officers Who Brutalized You
1. Ask for Their Name and Badge Number—During the Encounter
This might be the most critical step, even if you’re terrified or in pain. If you’re able, ask out loud: “What is your name?” and “What’s your badge number?” Say it clearly. Say it more than once. Your question might later appear in body camera footage or your own video. And preserving your attempt to hold them accountable which may be able to later help you in court.
Brittany Chrishawn, for example, screamed “What is your name?!” as she was being violently arrested. At the time, she couldn’t write anything down. But later, that question—and the officer’s answer—could be heard clearly in the released body camera footage. That one moment helped reveal the officer’s identity.
2. Carefully Review Everything That Was Recorded
If you’re in a police encounter, film as much as you legally can. But just as important: later, review that footage closely. Officers may casually say each other’s names or reveal useful information in the background.
In Brittany’s case, reviewing body camera audio revealed officers calling each other by name — which helped confirm their identities and roles on video. These details can be powerful when building your defense!
3. Request the Police Report—But Don’t Rely on It Alone
When you request the official police report from the sheriff’s office, you may find the officer names are redacted, especially if the department claims the officers were the “victims” under Marcy’s Law. This is what happened in Brittany’s case: the very officers who brutalized her were listed as the “victims,” and their names were blocked. But there’s a workaround…
4. Seek Help from Honest Insiders ***
Sometimes, people on the inside want to help but are afraid to speak publicly. In Brittany’s case, a corrections officer—devastated by what he saw on the footage—quietly helped by sharing a copy of the “Judge’s police report,” which did not have the officer names redacted. This crucial document allowed Brittany to identify every officer involved—not just the ones she had direct contact with.
If you or your family know someone on the inside with access to unfiltered reports or documents, ask for their help discreetly. You never know who might want to do the right thing.
5. Use Civil Litigation to Uncover More
When Brittany filed her civil lawsuit, her attorney was able to dig even deeper. Even though the original police reports only showed the officers’ first and middle initials with last names, her legal team discovered their full names and badge numbers.
Filing a lawsuit may not feel accessible or realistic right away—but civil attorneys often have tools that regular citizens don’t. It’s worth exploring, especially if you’re hitting dead ends.
Final Thoughts
If police brutalized you or someone you love, the system will often try to hide the identities of those responsible—but don’t give up. Knowing who hurt you is the first step toward fighting back.
ALWAYS: Ask for their names. Record. And demand accountability!
And remember: there are people—even within the system—who are rooting for you to find justice.
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They broke her teeth. But they couldn’t break her smile. Discover more about Brittany Chrishawn at: https://brittanychrishawn.com