Police Officer

Police Officer

BlueSheepdog

10 Years Experience

Around the Way, FL

Male, 40

Cheating death and fighting communism: that is how a fellow officer once described our job. It was meant to be funny, but as time went on it seemed all too true.

I spent more than ten years in law enforcement, all of it on the street in uniform patrol. I've been a patrol officer, instructor, sergeant and lieutenant.

Do not report crimes here. Nothing here should be considered legal advice. All opinions are my own.

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Last Answer on October 29, 2014

Best Rated

Can a BB Gun be considered a concealed weapon? I wouldn't have it out in public, at the most it would be in my car. (I live in South Carolina.)

Asked by Emily almost 12 years ago

I'd suggesting checking South Carolina law:  http://www.sled.sc.gov/SCStateGunLaws1.aspx  If you don't find what you are looking for, contact SLED for more information.

Is there anything that might pop up in police screening?

Asked by mauisheriff@gmail.com over 11 years ago

Can you rephrase the question?  It sounds like you are asking me to tell you if there is anything in your background that might cause you problems in being hired.  Without knowing you, that would be an impossible question for me to answer.

are all these questions kept confidential

Asked by wolfgirl over 11 years ago

Of course not.

 

3rd time tenants lived in the house and took the intruders sitting in drive as a threat, so they called to report that incident. Since nothing happened sheriff didn't need to come out? But a report could be filed on the phone then?

Asked by mjd almost 12 years ago

Most agencies would probably not come out since no one was on scene, but yes, the complainant could make a report by phone.

Are you allowed to lie about being a police officer if you're asked point-blank, like in an undercover sting or something?

Asked by Jax about 12 years ago

Yes.

Can an off duty officer (in plain clothes) flash his badge and threaten to arrest you? (Verbal argument, nothing physical and no threats)

Asked by Eric almost 12 years ago

State laws vary, but generally a police officer, on- or off-duty, can arrest someone if they have probable cause to believe a crime has been committed.  

When is it OK to ask a cop for his badge number? If you are not being arrested or charged with anything, is a cop still required to give it to you? What if the cop is off duty but still in uniform?

Asked by Mara almost 12 years ago

Feel free to ask for a badge number any time you like.  Badge numbers aren't magic talismans.  I'd suggest asking the officer his or her name instead, as some departments don't use badge numbers for anything.  In fact, a lot of agencies don't even have numbers on the badges.

One thing I always think is funny is someone who wants my badge number who is standing in front of me.  Both my name and badge number are clearly visible, as well as the agency I represent.  Additionally, I almost always introduce myself when talking to anyone.  Yet, the common courtesy of using someone's name in conversation has largely disappeared.  Now it seems everyone is just "dude" or "bro."