Fast 5: Quick Thinking Guide

This guide will help you associate good judgment with proper thinking. Most times, interaction with law enforcement happens suddenly and most bad decisions are based on fear and deception. We have put together some questions and answers that will be helpful if the situation arises and law enforcement interaction takes place. We have taken what we call the Fast 5 common occurrences and put them into question form. It is our hope that this will stimulate the mindset of the youth if any of these situations arise.

If I am stopped by the police, what should I do?

• If you come in contact with the police, your main objective is a peaceful ending. Allow that officer to ask the necessary questions, and it is your responsibility to give a truthful response. Most times, you dictate the outcome of such situations. ALLOW THE OFFICER TO DO HIS JOB!

If I am asked for identification, what should I do?

• Identification is necessary for several reasons. It is used to confirm your identity, it is also used to ensure you are not wanted or a danger to officers or others. So if you’re asked to identify yourself, do so by showing a driver’s license, identification card or verbally stating your name. Always let the officer know the location of your Identification and do not make a sudden move to retrieve it. The officer will determine how he wants to retrieve the identification. If you are a minor, having a good contact number to confirm your statements will be very helpful.

What if my friend has something illegal, and I know about it? If we are together, what should I do?

• Very simple, even if you didn’t commit the crime or the illegal possession is in a friend’s possession, you can still be considered an accessory. Being an accessory simply means you didn’t commit the crime but you have knowledge of it. It also means you don’t have anything illegal, but you know someone that is with you does. It’s best to inform law enforcement in order to ensure you won’t be accused of possessing anything illegal.

If I have something illegal, what should I do?

• If you have something illegal, immediately inform law enforcement. If the illegal item is a weapon of any kind, keep your hands away from your body and avoid any sudden movement. Let the officer know where the weapon is located, and allow him or her to retrieve it. If a search is warranted or conducted, do not allow the officer to locate the item(s) in your possession during that search without informing them. This keeps down confusion and hostility from all parties involved.

If I am a passenger in a vehicle that is stopped by the police, what should I do?

• In this situation if you are the driver, you are in control of that vehicle. Initially, all questions will be directed towards you. If you are not being questioned or engaged by the officer, you should remain calm and quiet. Also, while sitting inside the vehicle keep your hands visible at all times and do not make any sudden movements. If you are asked to exit the vehicle, do so without questioning the officer. If there is something illegal inside the vehicle and you have knowledge of it, ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS let the officer know. Nothing is worth giving up your freedom, not even a friendship. Most situations can be rectified while on-scene and incarceration is the last resort in many situations.

Each of these concepts is based on law enforcement and community interaction.

Summary

As law enforcement officers, we are obligated to protect, serve, and respect the citizens of this parish. It is your obligation to conduct yourselves as a respectable youth and to also be willing and cooperative with Law Enforcement, peers, and fellow citizens of this parish.