LogFAQs > #943921444

So, a couple or three things.

The number one thing an innocent person should think when stopped by the police is...what do I need to do to get home safe?

Second: If the police stop and detain you they are able to order you to produce ID. It's just the law. See rule one. Afterwards you can get badge numbers and file a complaint but at that moment you are required to comply.

Third: don't talk to cops. Everything you say is admissible. If they ask you question you do NOT have to answer. You have to provide ID if the police have probable cause to suspect you have violated a law. But that is it. You don't have to tell them where you work or what you are doing.

Fourth: if you don't answer questions it may make things more difficult and draw things out. But that's ok, you are within your rights not to answer questions. If you think the police are harassing you say so, but continue to obey commands. If they tell you to get out of the car, get out. If they want to search you, let them (see Terry frisk). Remember that these guys can arrest or hurt you (see rule 1).

Fifth: cops are human and can react poorly. It's not fair but that is how it is. Your main goal is to get home. Do what you need to do to get home. If you are in a state that allows you to record the police do that. You can weigh filing a complaint at home, safe.

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I know, indeed, the evil of that I purpose; but my inclination gets the better of my judgment. - Euripides