Stop That Vehicle and Stay Alive (From Law Enforcement Bible, Number 2, P 32-39, 1982, Robert A Scanlon, ed. - See NCJ-95077)

• NCJ Number: 95080
• Author(s): J D Sewell; W D Beckerman
• Date Published: 1982
• Length: 8 pages
• Sale Source: Stoeger Publishing Co
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Since vehicular stops are a major source of danger for law enforcement officers, guidelines for making safe stops are presented.

Abstract

First, decide that a stop is necessary because a traffic violation was observed, the driver's behavior is suspicious, or the vehicle matches that of a known violator. Then, run a wants/warrant check on the license plate and wait for its return before stopping the vehicle. Follow the car at a distance which will permit quick and safe response to any actions of the violator (about one car length for every 10 mph of speed). Choose a location for the stop that maximizes personal safety and that of the public and the violator. If the vehicle contains a known or probable felon, request backup units and wait for their arrival before the stop. In a simple traffic stop, make sure citation book and other needed items are in hand. Once the violator is pulled over, the best position for the officer's vehicle is 15 feet behind and 3 feet to the left of the stopped vehicle. In a high-risk stop, expand that distance and turn the steering wheel to the left so tires can afford some protection from ricochets and low gunfire. Radio a full description of the vehicle, occupants, and location of the stop before exiting the patrol car and leave the microphone easily accessible. If the vehicle or its occupants are suspicious, wait for backups and use the car public address system to establish control. Prior to approaching the vehicle, use the public address system to ask the driver to turn off the engine; leave the partrol car engine running. Carefully approach the stopped vehicle and use training, experience, common sense and intuition to maintain personal safety. Always keep the gun holster unsnapped and gun hand free. Control the driver and make him/her follow instructions. Never allow the driver to get too close and never illuminate oneself with patrol car headlights. No vehicular stop is routine and each poses a safety threat. Finally, no stop is complete until the stopped vehicle has reentered the traffic lane or until the passengers are in custody and the vehicle is properly secured. Graphic and photographic illustrations are provided.