May 25, 2013
February 20, 2006
If an unmarked deputy car pulls you over late at night, how do you know it's a real officer? That question has people talking after an Augusta woman was pulled over by an impostor Friday night.
There are a few standard things that you should look for on routine traffic stops. It's information that could keep you from becoming a victim.
"Sir, the reason I stopped you is you have an expired tag. Did you realize that?”
It's another routine traffic stop for Lt. Andrew Shed. The first thing he usually does is explain the offense and gets the drivers license and insurance information.
Fifteen-year-old D.J. Morris is about to get his drivers license. He would be reluctant to pull over on a dark road.
"I'd be scared, I wouldn't know what to do. I'd just be all shaky and stuff," Morris said.
But D.J.'s dad and uncle aren't quite as cautious.
"I would probably think he was a cop if he pulled me over."
"What do we look for?” They asked.
Always look for the uniform, official ID and badge. No officer should ever be without it. Also, check for the Gun.
Sometimes the officer will ask the driver to get out of the vehicle. It all depends on the situation. This driver didn't have to get out, and the stop happened in broad daylight.
"If it wasn't a real cop, I'd be pretty mad," said D.J. Morris.
And from now on, he and his family know to call 911 or drive to the nearest law enforcement center if something doesn't feel right.
Officers are still looking for the male suspect, he could face felony charges.
