[INFORMATION] Traffic Stops

raffic Stops

Initiating the Stop
To get a vehicle to pull over, activate the lights and sirens and follow the vehicle until it pulls over and stops. If it fails to stop, use one of the secondary options such as /M. When the vehicle has stopped, park behind and angled to the LEFT. This will force traffic away from you when you are speaking with the driver. Use the megaphone and order the driver to turn off the engine and remain inside the vehicle.



Calling in over the Radio
You should call in over the radio to explain your current situation incase you need backup. You should give your rank and last name to identify yourself. Then, the 10-Code of what you are doing, which in this case is a 10-26. Then, your location by giving the neighbourhood you're in or a landmark. Then, the vehicle description, license plate and the number of occupants. Lastly, Your status, which would be code two for assistance, code three for backup, or code four no assistance or backup.



Checking the Driver
You may now approach the driver. You should be able to see if the window is down or not. If it's up, role play knocking on the window until they type /CAR WINDOW. You should introduce yourself with your rank, last name, and agency you're with. Then, ask for the drivers license and vehicle registration. Once you have these, Remind the driver to remain in the vehicle, then walk back to your cruiser to use the /MDC.



Using the Mobile Data Computer
Open the MDC, then go to Civilian Information, and then Check Record, and enter the drivers name. Check for any current warrants. If you find any, this would then turn into a felony stop. If it's clear, check if they have any previous crimes. Anything such as attempted murder, possession of firearms or evading, you may want to call for assistance code two as they may attempt this again. If it's anything non-violent like drug possession, you can proceed with the traffic stop alone.



Concluding the Investigation
If everything is normal, you can return to the driver and proceed with the traffic stop. Inform the driver why they were stopped and ask if they have an explanation. It is then up to do what action you take. If the driver has a reasonable excuse or apologizes for their actions, You can let them go with a warning. If they have no excuse, Write the reason down on a citation and give it to them. If they refuses the citation, You can arrest them for whatever the reason was for the traffic stop. For example, jailed for 1 minute, but given a $50 fine for speeding. If they are unable to pay a ticket, Issue it on their vehicle instead and they can pay it later at the DMV. Once you are finished, Give the driver their license and registration back, and tell them they're free to go. Make sure the driver leaves before you turn your back and walk back to the cruiser.