Quote:
Originally Posted by 2bits
Luckily the trooper only gave you a warning, but he shouldn't have raised his voice or threatened jail. Either you did something that warrants hauling you in to jail, or you didn't. That fact that he asked the question provides the answer, and it's just not called for. Very unprofessional. I can only give him the benefit of a doubt and presume he was having a really bad day as we all do now and then, but still...  |
Agreed. The role of a police officer is to uphold the law and protect the citizens. Allowing personal bias or emotion to come into play is unprofessional and outside the job description. First, he shouldn't have been upset. Second, he should have explained why he pulled you over promptly and clearly. Third, asking if you should go to jail is just taunting you to feed his anger. You handled things exactly right. You apologize a hundred times (even if you think you're right), don't give excuses, and say that you'll be sure you'll never do it again. Even asking him why he's upset would just exacerbate the problem. My father-in-law is a sergeant and he's a great, mellow guy. However, there are many hot-head cops out there who feed on finally being the bully after getting daily swirlies in highschool. Being apologetic and deferential has always worked in my favor when I've been pulled over.