The officers of the Norwalk Police Department offer this information so you may know what to expect in the event that you are stopped by a Norwalk Police Officer.  Our concern is for your safety and, of course, the safety of our officers.

Few citizens have first-hand knowledge of the hazards that police officers face on a daily basis.  Because of these dangers, officers must constantly be on guard.  We hope these suggestions will be beneficial to citizens during a police contact.

What to do if a Norwalk Police Officer Stops You

How to ensure your safety if you are stopped

While in your car:

1. Pull over to the right immediately upon seeing the police car’s red and  blue lights.
2. Remain in your vehicle while the officer approaches.
3. Turn on your interior light if stopped at night
4. Keep your hands in sight - preferably on the steering wheel where the officer can readily see them
5. Give your license, registration, and proof of insurance if asked to do so.
6. If you want an explanation as to why you were stopped, ask before the officer returns to his/her cruiser.
7. Do not touch, threaten, or act in a disorderly manner towards a law enforcement officer. The conduct could result in arrest or additional charges.
8. If the officer asks you to step out of the vehicle do so without any threatening or sudden movements.
9. Give the officer at least three to six feet of professional space to do his/her job.
10. Remain in your vehicle at all times unless told otherwise.
11. Do not transport firearms in a vehicle without being advised how to do so legally. Call the Police Station and an officer will explain the proper procedure.

Our officers do not have "quotas." Whether officers write a citation or not is up to their individual discretion.

While on the street:

Please keep in mind if an officer approaches you and momentarily detains you, there is a reason for which you may be unaware. The most common reasons for an officer to stop a civilian are as follows:

1. You may be one of only a few people in the vicinity of a crime which has recently occurred.
2. Your clothing may be similar to that worn by the perpetrator of a crime.
3. Someone may have called the police station complaining about your presence or that you looked "suspicious."
4. Someone may have pointed you out to an officer.
5. You may be acting in a manner the officer considers out of the ordinary and you act suspiciously after realizing you are being observed.

Keep in mind that an officer doesn’t wish to detain you any longer than necessary. Your cooperation will help expedite matters!

If you are stopped in Norwalk, 99.9% of the time, it will be by an officer in one of the marked cruisers. On occasion, an officer in an unmarked vehicle may attempt to stop you. If you aren’t sure if it is an officer drive slowly and legally to the police station for further confirmation or call dispatch on 9-1-1.

From the perspective of the officer:

A person who has been stopped by a law enforcement officer often doesn’t realize the officer operates under unique and challenging circumstances. Officers are trying to enforce the law while also ensuring your safety and the safety of those around you.

When confronting criminals, officers often look for telltale signs, such as anger, deception or nervousness. It is possible that if you are stopped by an officer, you may unknowingly exhibit some of these same signs. Until the officer has the opportunity to assess the situation, he may believe your nervousness is a precursor to flight or even assault. Please allow an officer necessary time to come to a proper conclusion.

If you are stopped and issued a citation, understand that it is part of the officer’s duty. They are sworn to enforce the law. In addition, when issuing citations, officers are often responding to complaints made by fellow citizens and are performing their duty to address those complaints. Please remember police officers are human and wish to be treated as you would want to be treated.

In all law enforcement encounters, please remember these basic rules:

1. Do not make sudden movements for your wallet, into your coat, or towards your waist or pockets until you have informed the officer of your intent and the officer has given approval.
2. Do not carry weapons, real or otherwise, or even joke about having one in your possession.
3. By all means, do not touch an officer, or invade his or her "personal space."
4. Do not be argumentative. Being uncooperative will only prolong your encounter.
5. Do not immediately demand an explanation - comply first, then seek an explanation from the officer or his supervisor.

Send mail to bobby543@accnorwalk.com with questions or comments about this web site.
Copyright © 2003 Norwalk Police Department
Last modified: 03/22/07