Talking to the cops

[powernoodle]

Here's what I say:

- learn the knife laws in your jurisdiction; know them inside and out
- comply with those laws at all times
- don't be a 'fraidy cat; if you are in compliance with the law, it does not matter of someone else - including a police officer - doesn't like it. Don't live in fear.
- if you encounter a police officer, be exceedingly polite and deferential, even if he is a jerkwad. Especially if he is a jerkwad. That will get you a long way.
- don't be afraid of the police; all they can do is arrest you. Don't live in fear, comply with the law, and trust the judicial system to demonstrate your innocence if you are ever wrongly arrested for violating a knife law.

 

[MORIMOTOM]

knife laws represent only one very small portion of enforceable sections.

we expect every cop to know the ins and outs of all knife laws everywhere, because we like knives.

many will have to reference the applicable laws if an unfamiliar item is encountered. around my peers, im generally considered the expert about weapons laws. i familiarize myself with them because, well, i like knives and other stuff.

 

[zignal_zero]

I seriously doubt any LEO would give you their card and back up what they told you.

I would and have.

I bought a knife for a friend (fixed blade) told him to make sure the entire handle is exposed and if he runs into any trouble with (other) LEO to tell them - a LEO friend gave me this for the specific purpose of remaining legal, he assured me there were no state statutes against carrying it and asks that you to call him if you feel carrying this is illegal.

MORIMTOM is completely correct - (regular uniformed) LEO's are expected to know a little about everything but not be experts on anything (in regards to state statutes). I was my Dept's "Violent Crimes Investigator" so, chapter 790 (the one that applies to us ) was my strong point. whereas I have almost no clue when it comes to chapter 316 (traffic)

as far as the - cops are not lawyers. that' right, they're/we're not. however, I have seen cops correct lawyers (more than once).

 

[TOM1960]

knife laws represent only one very small portion of enforceable sections.

we expect every cop to know the ins and outs of all knife laws everywhere, because we like knives.

many will have to reference the applicable laws if an unfamiliar item is encountered. around my peers, im generally considered the expert about weapons laws. i familiarize myself with them because, well, i like knives and other stuff.

You also do so because you are a responsible LEO. Unfortunately, not all LEOs follow your example.