How to deal with police.
- Keep your hands visible — if they can't see your hands, they might think you have a weapon.
- No sudden movements — move slowly and predictably to avoid scaring the officers.
- Record the police — recording the police is legal, and it might keep the situation from escalating.
- Ask if you can leave — ask "may I leave?" and walk away without talking if the officer answers yes.
- If you can't leave, ask why — politely ask "for what crime?" if the officer says you can't leave.
- Be polite — yelling will only make the situation worse.
- Don't touch the police — if you touch the officer(s), you may be charged with assault.
- Don't give your consent — say "I don't consent to this search." Keep in mind that warrantless pat-downs are legal in many areas.
- Don't fight back — if you fight back, you might be charged with assault.
- Don't resist arrest — this will just make your situation worse.
- Document everything — if you go to court, detailed evidence—like video—may help your case.
- Don't argue or give excuses — police misconduct isn't solved on the streets. Stay silent.
- Stay silent, but give ID — you don't have to answer their questions, but do give identification.
- Memorize everything — remember information like the officer's badge ID and the questions they ask.
- Don't lie — there is no reason to lie. Remain silent instead.
Adapted partially from an ACLU DC pamphlet.