The Exponent - opinions


04-25-2003	Previous edition: 04-24-2003

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When dealing with police, know your rights

This weekend, friends, parents and alumni will flock to Purdue for the greatest spectacle in collegiate racing. Along with the actual race, Grand Prix Weekend is known for its end-of-semester parties.

That’s what will draw an increased police presence in the form of local and state police, as well as excise.

If you choose to drink this weekend, we urge you to do so responsibly and only if you’re of age. However, if in the course of your weekend you have a run-in with law enforcement officials, it’s important to keep in mind the rights you have as a citizen.

According to FlexYourRights.org, there are basic things you can do during an encounter with an officer to make sure your rights aren’t violated. First, keep private items out of view. Police officers don’t need search warrants in order to confiscate items in plain view. During an encounter with police, be courteous and non-confrontational. Address the officer as "Sir," "Ma’am" or "Officer."

Keep in mind you can refuse warrantless searches. If the officer asks to search your vehicle or apartment, you don’t have to consent. The American Civil Liberties Union advises to clearly state — preferably in front of a witness — that you do not consent to a warrantless search, therefore anything turned up in a search could be deemed inadmissable in court.

Remember that if you are being questioned by an officer, you don’t have to answer their questions, even if he or she has a search warrant. You have the right to refuse to answer questions until you have a lawyer present; if you request a lawyer, officers should stop asking you questions. Like they say in the movies, "anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law."

Finally, unless you have been arrested or otherwise detained, you have the right to end an encounter with an officer. If you’re unsure as to whether or not you’ve been detained, ask the officer if you’re free to go. If the officer says you are, wish him or her a nice day and leave immediately.

Obviously, the best way to stay out of trouble is to not do anything wrong. Regardless, it is important to know your rights. Further information can be found at the ACLU’s website at http://www.aclu.org.

Editorial Board: Jason Tomcsi, Matt Poston, Tom McHenry, Nathan Hall, Jamie Giles and Emilie Bauer.

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