Few of us like to interact with cops – like scabies, they are best avoided entirely. But when do you have a choice – and when don’t you have a choice about interacting with a costumed enforcer? When are you legally required to identify yourself? To produce ID? Laws vary, state to state, but here are some general things to know:
* The (so-called) “consensual” interaction -
This generally applies to pedestrians and so on – people out in public, but not operating a motor vehicle.
A cop may – like anyone else – approach you at any time and ask you questions. He is not required to have “reasonable suspicion” a crime has been committed – much less “probable cause” suggesting that a crime has been committed.
Most people – because they have been taught to defer to people wearing state-issued costumes – will answer a cop’s questions, even though they would rather not – and probably would not have, if the person asking were just an ordinary citizen as opposed to a costumed enforcer. They feel pressured. Some will show their IDs, if asked – and even grant permission to let the cop rifle through their possessions.
More
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
The kids in Salisbury police looks as though they are 16 years old, is this the training ground for cops?
ReplyDeleteAlso, passengers in a car do not need to show id, only the operator of the vehicle. (Unless you’re holding an open beer)
ReplyDeleteYa'll better do what the Barneys ask regardless of the law unless you want your head cracked. You are forgeting that they are now Homeland Security and above the law.
ReplyDeleteSome are good and some are bad just like the rest of society. Having a job like that and having to deal with the dregs of society day in and day out has got to make even the best ones a little cynical.
ReplyDeleteSome are good and some are bad just like the rest of society.
ReplyDeleteThat is true, but they don't have that luxury. And neither should they.