Battle Creek Law Enforcement Talk About How To Handle A Traffic Stop

Battle Creek Police Chief Jim Blocker and Calhoun County Sheriff Matt Saxton discussed several different points motorists should know in the event they are pulled over by a police officer.

Here are three main take-aways they have:

Be respectful

Blocker and Saxton tell 95.3 WBCK all officers approach every motorist at a traffic stop with professionalism and respect, and they expect the same in return. Doing so, they say, sets the correct tone for the exchange. They recommend putting your four-way hazard flashers on as well as turning on the dome light in your vehicle if the stop is at night.

Be Safe

If you are not sure there is a safe place that is well lit to pull over, Blocker and Saxton agree you can drive a little further (within reason) in order to find a safe place. Both Blocker and Saxton agree a case of police impersonation is very rare, but if you are not sure the person who has pulled you over is an actual police officer, call 9-1-1. The dispatcher will know if a real officer is pulling you over.

If You Have A CPL, Tell The Officer

In accordance with Concealed Pistol License training in Michigan, a CPL holder should tell an officer at the onset of the traffic stop that they are licensed. They should also tell the officer if there is a weapon in the vehicle, according to Blocker and Saxton. Both recommend viewing the following special video which discusses the correct and incorrect ways to communicate about CPL during a traffic stop.

Blocker and Saxton also tell 95.3 WBCK their approach in a traffic stop is no different if there is a male or female driver or passenger. In fact, they assert that in a dark traffic stop, an officer will not know the gender of the driver or passengers until he approaches the car.

Click the player below to hear their remarks.

Hear The RIchard Piet Show weekday mornings from 5:30-9 on 95.3 WBCK.