What to Do When Stopped by the Police?

The Little Rock Police Department is Internationally Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies.

It Could Happen To You

What is your name?
Where do you live?
Have you got any identification?

These are questions which can be answered by almost everyone most of the time, there is a reason for the officer to question you - even if it may not seem so at the time. The officer may be investigating a complaint in the neighborhood, or following up on a radio call concerning a crime committed in the area.  For one reason or another, you may be the individual the police suspect. You may have knowledge that will help in the investigation, or the officer may think that you are experiencing some kind of trouble.

If You Are Stopped By the Police In Your Car

If you are driving a vehicle, the police can ask you to pull over at any time. The best thing to do in this situation is to pull over and follow the officer’s directions. The officer will request to see your driver's license, registration and/or proof of liability insurance.

If you are stopped at night, turn on your dome light. If the officer is going to write out a ticket for a traffic violation.

If you’re suspected of driving under the influence (DUI) and refuse to take a blood, urine or breath-test, your driver’s license may be suspended.

If You Are Stopped By the Police On the Street

Police may “pat-down” your outer-clothing, if they suspect a concealed weapon. Most of the problems you may encounter with the police can be avoided, collect your thoughts and remain calm.

TRY TO FIND WITNESSES and their names and phone numbers

There are many factors that may lead the police to approach and/or detain you. Every situation is different and the officer may consider one or more of the following factors;

• You are near a location where a crime has been recently reported or discovered.
• You may be – knowingly or unknowingly – a fact witness to a criminal event or a potential criminal target.
• You are hanging around with people or locations being monitored by the police to prevent crimes.
• You are acting in a manner which appears to be suspicious, potentially criminal or the police believe you may be in possession of stolen property, contraband, or weapons.

When walking or driving your car, you refuse to answer police questions and/or give false, evasive, or contradictory information… or you are combative and use derogatory or offensive language when approached... your reaction may be perceived as suspicious or threatening. You have been identified to the police by someone else or you fit the description of a criminal actor.