We will not sit around and allow ourselves to be murdered. Each person has an obligation to preserve himself.
— Dr. Huey P. Newton
There are rules to life. The only way to win is to play by the rules. In some cases, winning looks like surviving the moment and surviving the moment looks like deference. Although one can still play by the rules and lose, we can only fight a hypocritical justice system with breath in our lungs. Hopefully, this information will lengthen your days and we can take the battle to the system, for in life there is hope. What to do when stopped by the police?
Rule 1
Respect the officer. A gentle answer turns away wrath. To greet an officer with hostility inflames the interaction. Win the small battles.
Rule 2
If given a ticket, it is better to sign the ticket and fight it in court than resist the officer.
Rule 3
DO NOT CONSENT to any searches. If an officer asks to search your vehicle, say no. Saying NO does not mean you have something to hide.
Please Remember
I
You can report a police officer who abuses you, uses vulgar language towards you, or violates your rights.
II
If you are arrested, DO NOT resist. It is illegal to resist, even if the arrest is unlawful.
III
You can only be strip-searched in private by officers of the same sex.
IV
You have the right to know a police officer’s name and badge number.
V
If you are being detained or arrested, you have a right to know WHY and a right to speak with a lawyer without delay.
VI
Police can only detain you if there is reasonable suspicion. Reasonable suspicion means you have committed a crime, are about to commit a crime, or are in the middle of committing a crime. ASK the officer if he/she has a reasonable suspicion.
VII
You can legally leave unless you are being detained or arrested. You must first ask, “Am I being detained?” If they say no, state clearly that you plan to leave. If they say you are being detained, stay and proceed to inquire about the reason for your detention.
VIII
You are obligated to provide the officer with 1)Drivers license 2)Registration 3)Personal identification (name, address, date of birth). Legally, this is the only information you are required to give to the officer. https://www.justia.com/criminal/procedure/miranda-rights/right-to-silence/