What term refers to the unlawful interference with a person’s civil rights?

The term that refers to unlawful interference with a person’s civil rights is oppression. Oppression encompasses a variety of actions that violate an individual's rights or freedoms, often involving the abuse of power or authority by those in positions of dominance. This can manifest in numerous forms, such as discrimination, harassment, or any systemic injustice that restricts individuals from exercising their civil liberties.

In this context, oppression is especially significant because it emphasizes the wrongdoing perpetrated against individuals or groups, often based on characteristics such as race, gender, or socio-economic status. Understanding oppression is crucial for law enforcement officers, as they are tasked with upholding and protecting civil rights within the community.

Other terms listed have distinct meanings and do not specifically address the unlawful interference with civil rights. For instance, obstruction generally relates to impeding governmental processes or legal procedures, disorderly conduct involves disruptive behavior, and malfeasance refers to the performance of a lawful act in an unlawful manner. Therefore, oppression most accurately aligns with the violation of civil rights.