Expert: Jason Grabill - 10/9/2008

Question
Dear Mr. Grabill,
I am a Baltimore County teacher, and I have to drive I-95 to work every day from Harford Co.  I have noticed lately that there has been a change within the past few months in in the kinds of unmarked police cars that are be utilized by the Sate Police on I-95.  Prior to this, I have noticed that the unmarked cars were always dark-colored mid-sized sedans.  Now, I am seeing all kinds of cars--from white SUVs to small compact cars.  My concern is this--are traffic stops made at night on I-95 in these unmarked cars?  It has been in the news recently, that it is not all that difficult to obtain a police uniform and badge, and in fact, someone was arrested recently in Maryland for doing that very thing.  I am concerned because to the untrained eye, it is almost impossible to tell in the dark if the uniform or the I.D.s are authentic.  Is there something that a person can look for or ask about that would ensure they were speaking to a real police officer if stopped at night in one of these unmarked cars?  Thanks. LH

Answer
Linda:

 Good question.  Yes, the MSP (and other agencies) are switching up the type of cars they use from the easily recognizable 'unmarked' things to less conspicious vehicles.  

 Here are some tips if you are being pulled over by an unmarked cruiser...

 First, the officer should be in uniform.  It's extremely unusual for a non uniformed officer in an unmarked vehicle to be pulling a traffic stop.  That's almost never done, because of the concerns you've already noted.  

 Second, the cruiser will likely have all sorts of lights on it, not just a rotating 'bubble' light in the dash.  Those aren't used that much anymore, what with all the new LED lights and whatnot that are available.  Some older agencies might still have them, but it's unlikely.  The lights should be blue and red, and never 'just' red.  They may be all blue, but again, they will NEVER, in Maryland at least, be all red.  (Think the old 'kojack' light).

  All that having been said, if you are being pulled over by an unmarked 'traffic' car at night on the interstate, there are some things you can do.  First, acknowledge the officer trying to pull you over.  You can do that by tapping your brake lights, waving your hand at the rear view mirror, or some other way.  If you are concerned, try to stop in a well lighted area off the interstate (while maintaining the speed limit and driving safely).  As a last resort if you are really unsure of the officer, call 911 before you stop, explain that an unmarked vehicle is attempting to stop you (and give a good location) and you want to stop but are unsure if it's a real police officer.   

 An officer approaching you at the traffic stop should be in complete uniform, including an agency shoulder patch, badge, gunbelt, radio, etc.  MSP requires it's troopers to wear the stetson hat as well.

 You can always ask to see identification, or speak with a supervisor.  While the officer may not be happy with that, you can certainly do so.  Remain cooperative and friendly, and remember, if this is a real officer, he's concerned about his safety (you shooting him or doing something crazy) and he's going to do what he has to do to assure that safety.  Your job is to make him feel safe.

 Again, your cell phone in this instance is your best friend.  Call 911 and explain your concerns.  Ask for a marked unit to respond to your location.

 Hope that helps!

  Jason