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Being stopped by a
deputy sheriff can be uncomfortable. Deputies share your feelings.
More than half of all California peace officers killed in the line of
duty were conducting pedestrian or traffic stops. Our biggest
concern is safety, yours and ours. The information herein will
help everyone get home safely.
WHY DEPUTIES CONDUCT STOPS
Public safety is the primary reason
for any stop, for example:
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Did you commit a traffic violation?
ran a red light, expired registration tags
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Do you match the description of someone
wanted for a crime?
assault, theft, homicide
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Was your vehicle or one like it used to
commit a crime?
drive-by shooting, arson, kidnapping
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Is your vehicle safe?
broken taillight, cracked windshield
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Did you witness a crime?
robbery, shooting, burglary
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Do you need help?
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
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Red lights and/or a siren means pull
over to the right
where it is safe and where you will not block traffic.
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If it is dark, the deputy will use a
bright spotlight or flashlight to illuminate you or your car.
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California law requires all drivers to
show their license, registration, and insurance card to a peach
officer upon request.
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The United States Supreme Court states
it is reasonable and legal for a deputy to ask you and your passengers
to exit the car.
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According to State law, if you refuse to
sign a citation, you may be arrested.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
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Call the police of
sheriff. Assault, even by family members, is a crime. The
police often have information about other agencies that help victims of
domestic violence.
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Leave, or have someone
come and stay with you. Go to a battered women's shelter - call a
crisis hotline in your community or a health center to locate a shelter.
If you believe that you, and your children, are in danger - leave
immediately.
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Get medical attention from
your doctor or a hospital emergency room. Ask the staff to
photography your injuries and keep detailed records in case you decide
to take legal action.
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Contact your family court
for information about a civil protection order that does not involve
criminal charges or penalties.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT
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Deputies are trained to
be courteous and professional when they contact you.
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When it is safe or
practical to do so, the deputy will provide you with his/her business
card upon request.
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Deputies who are not in
uniform will also present proper identification upon request.
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Within a reasonable
amount of time, the deputy will explain why you were stopped.
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If you are disabled or
ill, the deputy will assist you.
TALK TO US
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The Watch Commander at
any Sheriff's Station or facility is available to answer your
questions regarding procedures, citations, or traffic stops.
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You can contact us in
person or by mail, and you do not have to use a special form.
The Watch Commander will complete a Service Comment Report to document
your complaint or commendation.
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Watch Commanders may
discuss a deputy's conduct, but cannot adjudicate citations.
Only a judge has that authority.
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If you choose to report
your concerns by phone, you may contact the station Watch Commanders
individually or you may dial 1-800-698-TALK.
If you have any questions, please contact
Deputy Shawn Brownell at (818)878-1808 extension 3103. |
