BLUF: While the primary method of avoiding a confrontation with police is to simply abide by the law, other “pre-stop” practices can reduce the potential for an unnecessary encounter.
Purpose of Avoiding a Confrontation
These steps are not intended to help you get away with any crime. The idea here is to avoid tying up Law Enforcement resources unnecessarily. There could be an occasion where a crime occurred near you and your vehicle or person matches some characteristics of the suspect. Coupling that with other actions you take or don’t take could mean you are stopped as part of the investigation.
Also, in a Life Altering Event (LAE), certain actions could be paired with increased LE discretion at the direction of powers seeking government overreach. In this occasion, more conspiratorial scenarios (cracking down on unvaccinated, supporters of outlier politicians, possession of a firearm protected by the 2A) could lead to negative consequences if stopped by the police. Let’s get into it.
Practices When Traveling by Vehicle
》Obey traffic laws. Concerning traveling the “speed limit” your speed should be within 1-4 mph over/under the limit. Traveling 5+ below the limit or more than 5-11 over the limit can attract law enforcement (LE) attention.
》Over use of signals (putting on blinker too soon, or when not necessary such as in a PVA), or lengthening stops at a stop sign/light (waiting more than 10 seconds to turn when it’s evident the roadway is clear of traffic or delaying your start after a green signal), or unnecessary turns (making 3 right turns) can attract attention.
》Maintain your vehicle’s inspection and ensure all equipment is in working order. Non-operational headlights, brake lights, and clear lights (license plate illumination) are frequent reasons for a traffic stop. Avoid attaching a license plate cover if it obscures the plate (state, number, or expiration).
》Don’t attempt to conceal your identity. Leaning back in the seat, purposefully looking away from an observing LE, tinting windows, pulling away at the sight of LE, or covering your face only increase LE suspicion.
Practices if Stopped
Note: If stopped, pull over safely. Don’t slam on the brakes; proceed forward and pull to the right slowly, well off the roadway. Put your vehicle in park, roll down windows, turn on interior light, and put hands on top of steering wheel. Wait for LE instruction/requests, don’t seek ID/registration until requested, don’t attempt to conceal or retrieve/present firearms. Notify LE of concealed carry status, comply with all orders and consider requests. In other words, argue your case in court, not on the roadside.
Practices When Traveling by Foot
》Don’t conceal your identity (yes again). Unnecessarily (relevant to environment) wearing a hood, medical mask, sun glasses, or large jacket can attract attention. They will have suspicion of identity or stolen property concealment. And don’t purposely avoid contact with LE. Fleeing the scene, crossing the street as LE is walking in your direction, or leaving a store upon LE entry raises suspicion.
》Avoid high crime areas. (Also applies to vehicular travel – navigate alternative routes.) Remain situationally aware of the area you operate in – the advance notice of known drug sales points or street gang housing (or meet-up) locations can allow you to avoid patrol/surveillance zones. Aside from the dangers such areas present, being observed in the area can raise LE suspicion of your alliances or intent.
》Avoid suspicious behavior or actions. Keep your hands out of your pockets when being observed by LE, don’t adjust your concealed carry firearm, don’t attempt to conceal your open carry firearm. If observing/recording LE, do so from distance and remain uninvolved in incident.
Practices if Stopped
Note: If stopped, comply with all orders and consider requests, do not resist, notify LE of concealed carry status upon official contact (not necessary for passing conversation exchange).
This article was originally written by the Grayman Briefing. Stay in the know. Sign up for Intel and Situational Awareness alerts pushed to your phone on emerging threats and preparedness warnings. Click HERE to subscribe to the Grayman Briefing.
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