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Originally Posted by CRAIG
If it would have been JDM the 85 yr old guy would have kicked his ass and took his squad car and drove off.
Surprised we haven't gotten JDM .02 on this subject. Common Kiel I want to hear it.
CRAIG
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I'll remember that the next time I stop a POS plymouth laser...
If it were ME, I would not have Pepper sprayed the man. For Gosh sakes, he's 85...
Words and your brain are stronger and more powerful than any weapon produced my man. I've talked my way out of a lot worse than this.
If I were the officer....
You call out on radio whats called a "slow to stop traffic", and wait for another car
You order the man out at gun point with another officer, just to cover your ass, and so bystanders see and hear you doing regular police work, and not being shady...
You then approach with caution, handcuff the man, advise him that he is NOT under arrest, but rather that I am conducting an investigation into why you didn't stop. Place the man in the rear of my squad.
Search the vehicle.
When no contraband or weapons are found, I advise the man of his miranda rights, place him under arrest for failure to yeild to an order to stop, or some sort of obstruction, and for expired registration displayed. Make HIM the bad guy.
Tow the vehicle, and take him to Ramsey Jail to be booked.
And keep my ass outta the news.
If I were his supervisor....
I would place him on probation. I would have Internal affairs conduct a VERY public and formal investigation, and invite the NAACP to LIMITED access to the case, and welcome them to conduct their own investigation. St Paul PD has onboard cameras.... Cameras don't lie.
IF I were the judge in this case...
I would throw out any greater charge than the expired tabs, revoke the man's license indefinately based on statements made that he did not see the officer attempting to stop him. St Paul uses a strobe style light bar and flashing headlights to stop vehicles. If he cannot see that behind him, then he should not be fit to operate a vehicle.
I would offer the officer a STERN warning on the use of force continuum. You cannot take chances on either side, over cautious or not. There were better ways to handle this situation.
If I had a gentleman failing his arms, refusing to leave his vehicle after I approached, I would have very well maced him too.... I almost had to tonight... But words eventually got me outta that situation.
It's my belief that you can talk yourself out of ALMOST anything... This officer should take verbal judo, offered by most departments...
My two cents.