Police Officer

Police Officer

BlueSheepdog

10 Years Experience

Around the Way, FL

Male, 40

Cheating death and fighting communism: that is how a fellow officer once described our job. It was meant to be funny, but as time went on it seemed all too true.

I spent more than ten years in law enforcement, all of it on the street in uniform patrol. I've been a patrol officer, instructor, sergeant and lieutenant.

Do not report crimes here. Nothing here should be considered legal advice. All opinions are my own.

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Last Answer on October 29, 2014

Best Rated

So i was going 98 miles an hour in a 75 zone. Will they take my license?

Asked by Ivie Hone almost 12 years ago

I don't know.  It depends on the laws of your state and your driving record.  You might want to contact an attorney.

I know the law states that airsoft weapons are required to have an orange tip. My question is this. My orange tip on my airsoft shotgun broke off. Can I use orange tape or paint the tip orange or will I still get in legal trouble?

Asked by Jon over 11 years ago

There are no such laws in my state that require an orange tip.  But, I don't live in some of the overly restrictive states such as New York or California that might require such a silly thing.  You definitely should check with an attorney or local law enforcement if you are unsure of the laws in your state.

Update - It seems federal law requires anyone selling a toy gun to have an orange tip on it.  I don't know that there is anything at the federal law that requires you to replace or maintain the orange tip.  Again, local laws may be more restrictive due to the eagerness of politicians to criminalize all aspects of life.

Can I get in trouble if I have a backpack that is decorated with weed all over?

Asked by Santi.. almost 12 years ago

Seriously, who writes these questions...?  If you want to have a backpack with images of marijuana all over it, knock yourself out.  I always like the folks who advertise their recreational activities.  

If you want to decorate your backpack with actual "weed all over," be my guest.  Depending on where you are in the world, that could be anything from completely legal to a capital offense (death penalty).  Laws inside the US vary, and unless the actual marijuana was significant in quantity, you are probably looking at a misdemeanor arrest.

 

Can a retired police officer flash his badge and threaten to arrest you or cause you trouble? Is there any legal ramifications for him doing this if it isn't allowed?

Asked by Chris over 11 years ago

It depends on the laws of the state.  In many states, a retired officer has citizen's arrest authority.  If you believe his/her behavior is abusive, contact the local law enforcement agency and file a complaint.

I mean that they have a history of violence. I know a friend that if she gets pulled over before the officer gets out of the car they have to call backup on her. I don't really understand why it happens. Its just something that made me curious.

Asked by Aleria over 11 years ago

I'm afraid I don't know anything about your friend or the specific circumstances.

Does having tattoos affect your chances on becoming a officer? And what if im thinkin about becoming an officer and joining the navy reserve's?

Asked by Michelle over 11 years ago

Different departments have different regulations regarding tattoos.  Many have in place policies prohibiting visible tattoos, while others have policies about the kinds or locations of tattoos (nothing obscene, nothing on the face or neck, etc.)  The more visible tattoos you have, the fewer agencies that will employ you.  Something under your shirt, on your back, etc. will not hurt you.

Being a member of the US Navy Reserve will greatly enhance your application and overall success in a law enforcement agency.

When pulled over for a traffic stop, we know you need license, registration, and proof of insurance. Should I wait with my hands on the wheel until I am asked for these documents, or have them ready?

Asked by Mark Mitchell over 11 years ago

Depends.  If you keep them all handy having them already isn't a bad idea.  If you are going to have to dig for them, leave them where they are and when the officer asks for them, explain what you are doing.  For example, "Officer, my registration is in my glove box.  Is it ok to reach in there and grab it?"  It just lets him or her know what you are doing and prevents any unexpected movement.

When in doubt, just sit tight and ask the officer to tell you what he or she would like for you to do.  It is a courtesy that can help reduce the tension.  The officer doesn't know who you are - good citizen or murderous fugitive - when he or she stops you.  

Politeness and helping to reduce the tension have even been known to change a ticket into a warning. :)