After reports this week in parts of Indiana of people being stopped by someone posing as a police officer, the Indiana State Police is offering tips on how to protect yourself from a false stop.
Always remember that a police officer cannot stop you in an unmarked vehicle unless the officer is in full uniform. A police man or woman can only make a traffic stop in civilian clothes if they are driving a fully marked police vehicle.
If you are questionable about the person trying to stop you…
- Stop in a well lit area.
- Lock your doors an only roll down the window one or two inches, just enough to communicate.
- Ask for an officer’s ID even if they are wearing something that says “police” or “sheriff”.
- Don’t get out unless the officer is legitimate
- Call 911 and give the dispatcher your location.
- If you don’t feel you should stop, drive the speed limit and turn on your emergency flashers and drive to a place you feel comfortable or until you see another police car.