CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) 917330 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>After reading the article posted about the encounter with the Florida police officer, I thought maybe I could offer some professional advice when dealing with the police (I’m a retired AZ State Trooper). To begin: Always be POLITE and RESPECTFUL when dealing with the police – this will prevent 90% of potential problems and it goes a long way. Remember, all cops are human and can have bad days or the person they stopped before you gave them a hard time. I’ll also note not all cops receive the same training – some are put on the road without a field supervision period. There are good cops (most) and not so good cops (few). Just remember “the golden rule.” <br /><br />NEVER ARGUE WITH POLICE during a traffic stop – YOU WILL NOT WIN. Remain calm. If you disagree, politely state your case – you can file a complaint with a supervisor later if needed. If you have passengers (especially intoxicated ones) tell them to be quiet. One of your drunk friends heckling a cop during a traffic stop will not help you. If you feel the cop was wrong on the traffic stop you can always argue your case in court but be prepared as judges don’t appreciate those who are not. Don’t be alarmed if more cops show up when stopped – for most agencies, this is standard procedure. Always be aware of what’s going on around you – making a cop follow you for two miles after they’ve turned on the red and blues doesn’t go over well. We should do this anyway due to the terrorist threat. Keep the radio down and stay off the cellphone (use a hands free device if needed). Do I have to say this? NEVER TEXT WHILE DRIVING! <br /><br />When being stopped, don’t start rummaging around in the vehicle (same for passengers). Remain still and safely pull over. Everyone needs to keep their hands in the open at all times – COPS ARE TRAINED IT’S THE HANDS THAT WILL KILL THEM. This doesn’t mean hang them out the window (this will send a message they are likely dealing with gang members). At night, turn on the dome light. Don’t try to retrieve your license, registration and insurance until they come up to your car. Keep these items organized and easily found – pulling out a six inch thick pile of papers doesn’t go over well. Additionally, if you have a gun in the glove compartment, TELL THE OFFICER BEFORE YOU OPEN IT AND REACH IN THERE! This has happened to me – I drew my .45 and it was in near his nose when he looked at me when I yelled “stop, don’t move!” He actually grabbed an unholstered gun to move it out of the way to get his paperwork and he has no idea how close he came to being shot. If you are carrying a handgun on you, I think its best you tell them, especially if they ask you to get out of the car (in some states you are required to tell them). They are usually permitted by law to temporarily take it from you while conducting business. I’ve seen cops do some silly things in these instances, such as empty the gun and even try to disassemble it. I’ve also seen cops fire the handgun in their patrol car while trying to unload it (pretty funny). Again, save any complaints for later. Personally, my mantra was everyone is always dangerous, however, I did not treat people that way. I let most people who said they were carrying a handgun keep it, simply telling them to keep their hand away from it. Yes, I watched people very carefully. This often led to a pleasant discussion about guns (in AZ it’s common to encounter people carrying handguns or guns in general). Yes, I’m pro-gun.<br /><br />When asked “Do you know why I stopped you?” answer truthfully – this can save you a possible ticket or maybe get you a warning. Cops know exactly why they stopped you (99% of the time) – they want to know if YOU know and were paying attention to driving. Never try the crap you see on the internet or elsewhere advising you on how to avoid getting a ticket, how to get out of a DUI checkpoint, demanding your constitutional rights and citing law, etc. – you are risking going to jail. I suggest you obey the law and comply with the officer unless they are CLEARLY telling you to do something illegal. Again, don’t argue with the cops, you’re not going to win. Don’t videotape cops unless you feel you really need to – most don’t like it for some reason (it never bothered me). You can usually do this provided it is not interfering with the officer’s duties and your responsibilities.<br /><br />In AZ, we have had incidents of guys pretending to be cops who drive old auctioned police cars (ladies, this is especially for you). Some of these cars still have push bumpers, search lights and antennas on and they resemble an unmarked police car. They have actually pulled people over (they’ve installed their own illegal police lights) and have fake badges and ID – sometimes resulting in kidnapping or sexual assaults. If you are ever in doubt about an unmarked police car pulling you over, immediately call 911, slow down and drive to a very public area or a police station. A dispatcher should be able to confirm a real cop is stopping you (keep in mind they may have to check with several agencies). If it turns out to be a real cop, stop and tell them a cop you know told you to do this for your safety. They may be mad but you remain alive. <br /><br />It is possible to be confused with a wanted car and/or people (I have had this happen). We were looking for an armed robbery suspect and I located a car matching the description. We made a “felony stop” and removed the occupants at gunpoint from a distance. They were handcuffed and searched. This is scary for everyone. If this happens to you, COMPLY WITH ALL COMMANDS! There are nervous cops pointing guns at you – it will be sorted out later. I ended up apologizing profusely for the group, calming them down and getting them on their way again. Fortunately, I have a way with people. BTW: If this does happen to you, don’t think you have grounds for a big lawsuit – in most states, police are protected provided they can show probable cause.<br /><br />Anyone who’s been around long enough has seen the videos of cops asking to search a person’s vehicle, seemingly out of the blue. This is part of a program taught primarily for drug interdiction. They will ask for permission to search your car, usually after they have finished their business with you. This is a consent search – you have to give to consent before they can search. They may have a form they want you to sign. If you have questions ask them. You do not have to consent. If they begin asking things like “what are you hiding?” or “what are you worried about?” they are legally moving into the area of coercing a non-consensual search. If you don’t mind – let them. If you do mind and say no - they may let you go or they may hold you until they can get a drug dog. This begins to delve into an illegal arrest by detaining you longer than necessary without probable cause (if they have probable cause they don’t need your consent). This becomes a complex legal situation – if you feel your rights have been violated, file a complaint and get a lawyer. Again, don’t get into a big argument. <br /><br />So much for the scary negative stuff. The following is MY personal method of dealing with people on traffic stops: Those who were polite, respectful and honest, who admitted to the traffic violation(s) I stopped them for, tended to receive some leniency - I often reduced the violation(s) and sometimes gave them just a warning or repair order. It takes guts to do this and it also tells me they were paying attention. I also usually gave breaks to military personnel (a lot of cops do – except for places just outside of huge military bases). Give them your military ID with your driver’s license, it can’t hurt. Those who were not honest or had no clue why they were stopped tended to get a ticket(s). I had no hard set rules on this and took each case individually. Additionally, if you are stopped by a motorcycle officer, plan on getting a ticket – it’s what they do. A word of warning to the ladies: Please don’t think hiking your skirt up, unbuttoning a few buttons, flirting or crying will get you out of a ticket – it usually will guarantee it. And if you’re stopped for speeding, the old excuse of “I have to pee, I was looking for a bathroom” is worn out. Try something new! After I got a little salty, I often told people who engaged me sufficiently “If you can give me a realistic excuse I’ve never heard, I’ll give you a break.” I believe one person got that break – people are rather creative.<br /><br />So I think that’s about it, I hope you find these suggestions and tidbits helpful. Know the law in whatever state you are in, obey the law and remember: I’m not a lawyer, nor am I giving you legal advice. Be careful out there. 2015-08-25T14:57:41-04:00 CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) 917330

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>After reading the article posted about the encounter with the Florida police officer, I thought maybe I could offer some professional advice when dealing with the police (I’m a retired AZ State Trooper). To begin: Always be POLITE and RESPECTFUL when dealing with the police – this will prevent 90% of potential problems and it goes a long way. Remember, all cops are human and can have bad days or the person they stopped before you gave them a hard time. I’ll also note not all cops receive the same training – some are put on the road without a field supervision period. There are good cops (most) and not so good cops (few). Just remember “the golden rule.” <br /><br />NEVER ARGUE WITH POLICE during a traffic stop – YOU WILL NOT WIN. Remain calm. If you disagree, politely state your case – you can file a complaint with a supervisor later if needed. If you have passengers (especially intoxicated ones) tell them to be quiet. One of your drunk friends heckling a cop during a traffic stop will not help you. If you feel the cop was wrong on the traffic stop you can always argue your case in court but be prepared as judges don’t appreciate those who are not. Don’t be alarmed if more cops show up when stopped – for most agencies, this is standard procedure. Always be aware of what’s going on around you – making a cop follow you for two miles after they’ve turned on the red and blues doesn’t go over well. We should do this anyway due to the terrorist threat. Keep the radio down and stay off the cellphone (use a hands free device if needed). Do I have to say this? NEVER TEXT WHILE DRIVING! <br /><br />When being stopped, don’t start rummaging around in the vehicle (same for passengers). Remain still and safely pull over. Everyone needs to keep their hands in the open at all times – COPS ARE TRAINED IT’S THE HANDS THAT WILL KILL THEM. This doesn’t mean hang them out the window (this will send a message they are likely dealing with gang members). At night, turn on the dome light. Don’t try to retrieve your license, registration and insurance until they come up to your car. Keep these items organized and easily found – pulling out a six inch thick pile of papers doesn’t go over well. Additionally, if you have a gun in the glove compartment, TELL THE OFFICER BEFORE YOU OPEN IT AND REACH IN THERE! This has happened to me – I drew my .45 and it was in near his nose when he looked at me when I yelled “stop, don’t move!” He actually grabbed an unholstered gun to move it out of the way to get his paperwork and he has no idea how close he came to being shot. If you are carrying a handgun on you, I think its best you tell them, especially if they ask you to get out of the car (in some states you are required to tell them). They are usually permitted by law to temporarily take it from you while conducting business. I’ve seen cops do some silly things in these instances, such as empty the gun and even try to disassemble it. I’ve also seen cops fire the handgun in their patrol car while trying to unload it (pretty funny). Again, save any complaints for later. Personally, my mantra was everyone is always dangerous, however, I did not treat people that way. I let most people who said they were carrying a handgun keep it, simply telling them to keep their hand away from it. Yes, I watched people very carefully. This often led to a pleasant discussion about guns (in AZ it’s common to encounter people carrying handguns or guns in general). Yes, I’m pro-gun.<br /><br />When asked “Do you know why I stopped you?” answer truthfully – this can save you a possible ticket or maybe get you a warning. Cops know exactly why they stopped you (99% of the time) – they want to know if YOU know and were paying attention to driving. Never try the crap you see on the internet or elsewhere advising you on how to avoid getting a ticket, how to get out of a DUI checkpoint, demanding your constitutional rights and citing law, etc. – you are risking going to jail. I suggest you obey the law and comply with the officer unless they are CLEARLY telling you to do something illegal. Again, don’t argue with the cops, you’re not going to win. Don’t videotape cops unless you feel you really need to – most don’t like it for some reason (it never bothered me). You can usually do this provided it is not interfering with the officer’s duties and your responsibilities.<br /><br />In AZ, we have had incidents of guys pretending to be cops who drive old auctioned police cars (ladies, this is especially for you). Some of these cars still have push bumpers, search lights and antennas on and they resemble an unmarked police car. They have actually pulled people over (they’ve installed their own illegal police lights) and have fake badges and ID – sometimes resulting in kidnapping or sexual assaults. If you are ever in doubt about an unmarked police car pulling you over, immediately call 911, slow down and drive to a very public area or a police station. A dispatcher should be able to confirm a real cop is stopping you (keep in mind they may have to check with several agencies). If it turns out to be a real cop, stop and tell them a cop you know told you to do this for your safety. They may be mad but you remain alive. <br /><br />It is possible to be confused with a wanted car and/or people (I have had this happen). We were looking for an armed robbery suspect and I located a car matching the description. We made a “felony stop” and removed the occupants at gunpoint from a distance. They were handcuffed and searched. This is scary for everyone. If this happens to you, COMPLY WITH ALL COMMANDS! There are nervous cops pointing guns at you – it will be sorted out later. I ended up apologizing profusely for the group, calming them down and getting them on their way again. Fortunately, I have a way with people. BTW: If this does happen to you, don’t think you have grounds for a big lawsuit – in most states, police are protected provided they can show probable cause.<br /><br />Anyone who’s been around long enough has seen the videos of cops asking to search a person’s vehicle, seemingly out of the blue. This is part of a program taught primarily for drug interdiction. They will ask for permission to search your car, usually after they have finished their business with you. This is a consent search – you have to give to consent before they can search. They may have a form they want you to sign. If you have questions ask them. You do not have to consent. If they begin asking things like “what are you hiding?” or “what are you worried about?” they are legally moving into the area of coercing a non-consensual search. If you don’t mind – let them. If you do mind and say no - they may let you go or they may hold you until they can get a drug dog. This begins to delve into an illegal arrest by detaining you longer than necessary without probable cause (if they have probable cause they don’t need your consent). This becomes a complex legal situation – if you feel your rights have been violated, file a complaint and get a lawyer. Again, don’t get into a big argument. <br /><br />So much for the scary negative stuff. The following is MY personal method of dealing with people on traffic stops: Those who were polite, respectful and honest, who admitted to the traffic violation(s) I stopped them for, tended to receive some leniency - I often reduced the violation(s) and sometimes gave them just a warning or repair order. It takes guts to do this and it also tells me they were paying attention. I also usually gave breaks to military personnel (a lot of cops do – except for places just outside of huge military bases). Give them your military ID with your driver’s license, it can’t hurt. Those who were not honest or had no clue why they were stopped tended to get a ticket(s). I had no hard set rules on this and took each case individually. Additionally, if you are stopped by a motorcycle officer, plan on getting a ticket – it’s what they do. A word of warning to the ladies: Please don’t think hiking your skirt up, unbuttoning a few buttons, flirting or crying will get you out of a ticket – it usually will guarantee it. And if you’re stopped for speeding, the old excuse of “I have to pee, I was looking for a bathroom” is worn out. Try something new! After I got a little salty, I often told people who engaged me sufficiently “If you can give me a realistic excuse I’ve never heard, I’ll give you a break.” I believe one person got that break – people are rather creative.<br /><br />So I think that’s about it, I hope you find these suggestions and tidbits helpful. Know the law in whatever state you are in, obey the law and remember: I’m not a lawyer, nor am I giving you legal advice. Be careful out there.

2015-08-25T14:57:41-04:00 2015-08-25T14:57:41-04:00 Sgt David G Duchesneau 917339

<div class="images-v2-count-1"><div class="content-picture image-v2-number-1" id="image-57343"> <div class="social_icons social-buttons-on-image"> <a href='https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rallypoint.com%2Fanswers%2Fpolice-what-should-i-do-if-stopped%3Futm_source%3DFacebook%26utm_medium%3Dorganic%26utm_campaign%3DShare%20to%20facebook' target="_blank" class='social-share-button facebook-share-button'><i class="fa fa-facebook-f"></i></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=Police%3A+What+Should+I+Do+If+Stopped%3F&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rallypoint.com%2Fanswers%2Fpolice-what-should-i-do-if-stopped&amp;via=RallyPoint" target="_blank" class="social-share-button twitter-custom-share-button"><i class="fa fa-twitter"></i></a> <a href="mailto:?subject=Check this out on RallyPoint!&body=Hi, I thought you would find this interesting:%0D%0APolice: What Should I Do If Stopped?%0D%0A %0D%0AHere is the link: https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/police-what-should-i-do-if-stopped" target="_blank" class="social-share-button email-share-button"><i class="fa fa-envelope"></i></a> </div> <a class="fancybox" rel="19fddbe5fe64d53f6262bcdef2c5265d" href="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/057/343/for_gallery_v2/e40586d7.jpg"><img src="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/057/343/large_v3/e40586d7.jpg" alt="E40586d7" /></a></div></div>I think you covered most if not all of it! Good job!

2015-08-25T15:01:08-04:00 2015-08-25T15:01:08-04:00 SSG Warren Swan 917383

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>EXCELLENT Chief!! I ask about the video though. In VA, they've mentioned on the news that it's not a bad thing to videotape the traffic stop, and that many actually do it as long as it doesn't interfere with the officers work. What do you think on that? Also when I was younger, I was told to place my hands outside of the vehicle to show the police that I wasn't trying anything stupid, and it's something I do to this day. Should I stop this? I'm confused and am not trying to make a five minute stop last any longer. I remember when I did traffic stops as a MP, that when a woman started crying or undid the blouse, we'd stop right there and get assistance. Not to look or gawk at her, but as an additional witness showing everything was on the up and up. The YouTube videos are funny though. Everyone knows their constitutional rights at the wrong time.

2015-08-25T15:13:15-04:00 2015-08-25T15:13:15-04:00 CW3 Private RallyPoint Member 917397

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Great post <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="755574" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/755574-cw4-russ-hamilton-ret">CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret)</a>. At the end of the day I think being respectful, honest, and using common sense are keys to live by especially in these types of interactions.

2015-08-25T15:18:08-04:00 2015-08-25T15:18:08-04:00 CSM Michael J. Uhlig 917469

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Outstanding post and advice <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="755574" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/755574-cw4-russ-hamilton-ret">CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret)</a>!

2015-08-25T15:50:42-04:00 2015-08-25T15:50:42-04:00 CPT Private RallyPoint Member 917476

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Theis is excellent. Thank you for sharing it <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="755574" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/755574-cw4-russ-hamilton-ret">CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret)</a>

2015-08-25T15:52:43-04:00 2015-08-25T15:52:43-04:00 TSgt Joshua Copeland 917724

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Here is what happen to me LAST WEEK:<br /><br />So, while traveling back from a trip recently, I got pulled over for letting my speed slightly get away from my zone of attention as I got within about 30 minutes of home after driving 6 hours. When I seen the flashing lights, I pulled over as far as I reasonably could, rolled down the window, and put my hands on the ceiling till the officer approached. He asked me how I was doing and I replied I was doing good, and that I was a licensed concealed carry holder with a weapon in the vehicle (LA has a mandatory notification law, but I typically do anyway). He thanked me for letting him know. Asked me where it was (center console), and told me I could put my hands on the steering wheel and if I left mine where it was he would leave his where his was. I chuckled and told him no problem. He asked me if I could get my documents. I said sure. My military ID was already out, and handed that to him. I told him I would have to take my right hand, and put it in my right back pocket to get my wallet out to get my drivers license and CCWP. Then take my right hand and reach across to the passenger side glove compartment to get the rental agreement. He said, go ahead, which I did. Took a quick look at the documents, did some small talk of where I was coming from, where I was going to and what I did in the military. Handed me back by documents and told he have a good day MSgt, try to keep to the speed limit and I appreciate you letting me know about the weapon. The moral of the story. All cops aren't bad, they aren't trying to get you, if you treat them with respect, do what you are ask, there is a good chance you will be treated with respect. Even when you were doing something wrong.

2015-08-25T17:23:55-04:00 2015-08-25T17:23:55-04:00 SSG Leo Bell 917747

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Sir I give you much respect for this comment you made here. You have told people the truth and what to do and what not to do when getting stopped. I like what you said here

2015-08-25T17:39:05-04:00 2015-08-25T17:39:05-04:00 Sgt Kelli Mays 917964

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I've been stopped a few times over the past 30 yrs....and never had a problem...gave my drivers license and insurance...though these days they already know i'm insured through USAA by running my plates...wait...they come back with the ticket...and off they go...One time I told the cop it wasn't me who was speeding....and pointed out and told him the make model and color of the two cars who passed me up....he thought about it for a second and said...yeah, you could be right and let me know. ha!<br /><br />Just be polite...do what the officer says and be on your merry way.

2015-08-25T19:23:35-04:00 2015-08-25T19:23:35-04:00 CPT Jack Durish 918209

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I once heard that California Highway Patrolmen were required to issue a summons if they stopped anyone. This practice was intended to avoid any appearance that they may have accepted a bribe if they "let someone off with just a warning". Does anyone know if this is true?<br /><br />Personally, I never argue a stop. When asked why I was stopped, I answer honestly, "I don't know". How could I know? I do my arguing in court. (Incidentally, I've always been successful)

2015-08-25T21:16:34-04:00 2015-08-25T21:16:34-04:00 SrA Matthew Knight 918243

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I got pulled over a month ago for speeding. I was courteous to the officer, kept my hands on the wheel in his site. When he asked for my required items I told him where I would be reaching so he knew. Ended up going back to his car with him, he showed me my locked speed, we chatted about various things while he typed, he printed a warning and I was free to go.<br /><br />Be polite, do as you're told and if you have issues, bring them up in court not on the side of the road.

2015-08-25T21:29:42-04:00 2015-08-25T21:29:42-04:00 CW5 Private RallyPoint Member 918245

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Great post!! Thank you, <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="755574" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/755574-cw4-russ-hamilton-ret">CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret)</a>!

2015-08-25T21:30:10-04:00 2015-08-25T21:30:10-04:00 PO2 Jeffrey Sheibels 919586

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>My 2 cents....pull over at a safe location, not just safe for the officer but safe for you too. Keep your answers short and to the point. Don't argue. If they ask to see your drivers license and insurance, give it to them. Keep your mouth shut when not answering a question. Let the officer do the talking. Don't disagree with the officer. The few times I have been pulled over for speeding, the stop took no more than a couple minutes. Use words like "Sir", and "Officer" to show respect to the officer. If you get a ticket don't try to argue with the officer. Go to court if you disagree and let a Judge decide. Most of the videos and articles you see online are total bs and are only there for the persons 15 minutes of fame. As long as you are respectful, polite, and don't run your mouth, the stop should not last longer than 5 minutes.

2015-08-26T13:14:01-04:00 2015-08-26T13:14:01-04:00 CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) 919626

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>One more thing just came to mind: If you're on your cellphone when stopped, HANG UP! And don't make or receive calls during a traffic stop! Want to guess why I mention this? Because people do it. If you really want to piss a cop off, use your cellphone during a traffic stop.

2015-08-26T13:29:50-04:00 2015-08-26T13:29:50-04:00 CPO Andy Carrillo, MS 920391

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>As a former northern California deputy sheriff I wholeheartedly concur with CW4 Hamilton's sound advice. May I also add that with ANY vehicle stop the officer is physiologically in a heightened state of alert and managed stress over now interacting with an unknown driver/passengers and their intentions, and night stops are much more stressful than a daytime stop when visibility into the vehicle is significantly better (tinted windows notwithstanding). A bad attitude/arguing only ratchets up the flow of adrenalin and cortisol (for everyone) which can severely further impair judgment, and someone is going to lose. With heightening tensions between law enforcement and minorities who perceive themselves to be vicarious victims of police brutality (actual and perceived) officers have become hypervigilant to attacks in any form, from any source.

2015-08-26T19:15:10-04:00 2015-08-26T19:15:10-04:00 2015-08-25T14:57:41-04:00