Aaron Hernandez And The Consequences Of Destroying Electronic Evidence

The disturbing saga of former New England Patriot tight end Aaron Hernandez has continued to unfold before our eyes over the past few days. Hernandez has now been charged with one count of first-degree murder and is allegedly being investigated for his connection for two additional murders that took place during 2012. When authorities first approached Hernandez regarding his connection to the crime, they allegedly found that he had intentionally destroyed surveillance equipment around his home. He also handed over his cell phone to authorities "in pieces." Although Hernandez's legal problems run much deeper than his alleged destruction of evidence, it is important – while counseling a client in crisis – to identify what criminal consequences may arise if a client is tempted to choose this path.