NCJ Number
180651
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 68 Issue: 12 Dated: December 1999 Pages: 18-23
Date Published
1999
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article describes how law enforcement officers can prevent vehicle stops involving extremist group members from turning into deadly encounters.
Abstract
The U.S. Constitution gives citizens the right to express antigovernment opinions, yet some individuals carry their views to the extreme. In so doing, they put at risk the lives of law enforcement officers and innocent citizens. Extremist group members often train regularly for confrontations with law enforcement agents, and officers should be prepared. Vehicle stops involving members of extremist groups can escalate quickly into critical incidents for officers. Prior to making a stop, officers must devise a plan of action that includes selecting a location that provides personal cover and an evacuation route. They must approach vehicles, remove the occupants, conduct appropriate searches, interrogate subjects and end encounters using well-accepted and well-rehearsed procedures that maximize officer safety. The article includes vehicle and personal signs of possible involvement in extremist activities or organizations. Notes