Why do police stop people?
 
 

    There are many different reasons why the police might stop you, whatever the reason, the officer needs your cooperation.

                  • You may have committed a traffic offense or other criminal violation.

                  • The officer might think you are in trouble and need help.

                  • You may be a potential witness to a crime.

                  • You may fit the description of a person/vehicle the police are looking for.

        If you are stopped by the police you may feel confused, anxious, or even angry. These are natural feelings, but remember, traffic stops can be stressful and dangerous to the officer as well.

        Each year a number of law enforcement officers are killed or seriously injured while making “routine traffic stops.”

    With this in mind, there are things you, the citizen, can do to make the contact safer, more efficient, and hopefully more positive.

    When stopped by the police, please remember:

            1. When you see the red/blue lights and hear the siren, remain calm and safely pull over to the right side of the road. If you are in an intersection, safely proceed through the intersection and immediately pull over to the right. It is not necessary to pull over in a legal parking space; if the officer wants you to move your vehicle to another location they will advise you.

            2. Remain in your vehicle unless the officer advises otherwise. Many times there may be fast moving traffic, which is dangerous to you and the officer.

            3. Be sure the officer is wearing a police uniform or is clearly identifiable as a police officer. If not, keep your door locked and ask for identification. Once you are satisfied you have been stopped by a police officer, roll your window down so the officer may speak to you.

            4. Avoid any sudden movements, especially towards to the floorboards or under your seat. Try to keep your hands where the officer can see them. It is a good idea to keep both hands on the steering wheel.

            5. Do not immediately reach for your license or other documents until the officer requests them. Idaho law does require drivers to show their license, registration card, and insurance card to a police officer upon request. Whether you agree with the reason for the stop, or not.

            6. If your documents are out of reach, tell the officer where they are before you reach for them.

            7. If the stop occurs during darkness, the officer will likely use a bright spotlight and flashlight to illuminate your vehicle.

            8. If there are passengers in your vehicle, encourage them to remain quiet and cooperate with all instructions.

            9. The officer may issue you a ticket. If you feel the reason is vague or unclear, ask the officer for details.

            10. If you are issued a ticket, don’t argue with the officer. Please accept it calmly. Signing is not an admission of guilt; it is only a promise to appear. You will have an opportunity to address the matter in court.

            11. The Blackfoot Police Department generally uses single-officer patrol cars, and specialized unmarked vehicles. It is normal for additional officers to arrive, even on routine stops.

12. If you feel that the officer was not professional, please contact the Blackfoot Police Department at (208)785-1235 (business line) during normal business hours and request to speak with the officer’s supervisor. Please keep in mind that supervisors may only be available during business hours (M-F 08:00a – 4:00p).