If a police officer ever stops you during a routine check, you should know what not to say. It might sound simple, but many people get anxious when they’re stopped by the police even if they’ve done nothing wrong.
Remember, the police officer can even arrest you based on suspicion or anything that you might say accidentally.
So, to keep yourself safe in such situations, here are the five things you shouldn’t say to the police.
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“I know my rights” (In an angry tone)
It’s highly recommended to know your legal rights. However, shouting it in the face of the police officer? Not a smart move. It can escalate the situation and even be perceived as aggressive.
Make sure not to give the impression that you know better, even if you don’t have anything to hide. Stay calm and ask to talk to your lawyer if you think the officer is trying to falsely arrest you.
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“I only had a little bit”
First, it’s not safe to drink and drive, even if you have only a small amount. Stats show that over 13,000 deaths occurred due to drunk driving in 2024, and you don’t want that on your conscience.
However, if you’re ever stuck in such a situation, never say that you only had a little bit. Even if you’re trying to be honest with the officer, this is a direct admission of guilt, which can be used against you in court.
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“I was just holding it for someone else”
Again, this is a direct admission of guilt, even if you’re just holding it for a friend. In such a scenario, the police officer can charge you with “drug possession with intent to distribute”.
Many experienced drug crime lawyers would suggest you not to say anything. Moreover, you can deny an illegal car search, and then it’s up to the officer to present a legal reason for it and even get a warrant.
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“Go ahead, search the car”
Never give consent to search the car, even if you don’t have anything to hide. It’s because, if the officer is frustrated with you, they could find any twisted reason to arrest you. Or maybe they find something that they think is “suspicious”.
So, unless the officer has a warrant or probable cause, you don’t have to consent to a search. Just politely say, “I do not consent to any searches.”
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“Do you know who I am”
You may have seen or heard this one before. Pulling a rank isn’t just wrong; it can land you in legal trouble as well. This can be misinterpreted as a threat, and the penalties for that are a minimum of 30 days in jail and $ 5,000 in fines.
Just stay respectful, answer the questions that don’t incriminate you, and politely ask the officer the reason for the stop. If everything checks out, ask the officer if you can leave.
Summing Up
At this time, it’s important to be aware of your rights if a police officer stops you in your car or anywhere else. Many people consent to illegal searches that incriminate them, even if they’re not the ones at fault.
So, always be respectful, answer the question within your rights, and don’t consent to any search without any probable cause. In the end, remember, you have the right to remain silent.
