BACK 


Being stopped by a deputy sheriff can be uncomfortable. Deputies share your feelings. More than half the California peace officers killed in the line of duty were conducting pedestrian or traffic stops. Our biggest concern is safety, yours and ours. The information herein will help everyone get home safely.


aaaaa What You Can Expect

aaaaa Talk to Us

aaaaa Why Deputies Conduct Stops

aaaaa What You Need To Know

aaaaa  What You Should Do

 

 

 

 

 

 

aaaaaaaaaaa            BACK

 

 

 

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT


Deputies are trained to be courteous and professional when they contact you.

When it is safe or practical to do so, the deputy will provide you with his/her business card upon request.

Deputies who are not in uniform will also present proper identification upon request.

Within a reasonable amount of time, the deputy will explain why you were stopped.

If you are disabled or ill, the deputy will assist you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

aaaaaaa            BACK

 

 

 

TALK TO US

The watch commander at any Sheriff’s Station or facility is available to answer your questions regarding procedures, citations, or traffic stops.

You can contact us in person or by mail, and do not have to use a special form. The watch commander will complete a Service Comment Report to document your complaint or commendation.

Watch commanders may discuss a deputy’s conduct, but cannot adjudicate citations. Only a judge has that authority.

If you choose to report your concerns by phone, you may contact the station watch commanders individually or you may dial 1-800-698-TALK.

 

 

 

 

 

aaaaaaa           BACK

 

 

WHY DEPUTIES CONDUCT STOPS

Public safety is the primary reason for any stop, for example:

Did you commit a traffic violation?

aaaaaaa ran a red light, expired registration tags

Do you match the description of someone wanted
      for a crime?

aaaaaaa assault, theft, homicide

Was your vehicle or one like it used to commit a crime?
aaaaaaa drive-by shooting, arson, kidnapping

Is your vehicle safe?
aaaaaaa broken taillight, cracked windshield

Did you witness a crime?
aaaaaaa robbery, shooting, burglary

Do you need help?

 

 

 

 

aaaaaaa           BACK

 

 

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW


Red lights and/or a siren mean pull over to the right where it is safe and
where you will not block traffic.

If it is dark, the deputy will use a bright spotlight or flashlight to illuminate
you or your car.

California law requires all drivers to show their license, registration, and
insurance card to a peace officer upon request.

The U.S. Supreme Court states it is reasonable and legal for a deputy to
ask you and your passengers to exit the car.

According to State law, if you refuse to sign a citation, you may be arrested.

 

 

 

 

aaaaaaa           BACK

 

 

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO


Remain in your vehicle and follow the deputy’s instructions.

Keep your hands where the deputy can see them.

Avoid any sudden movements, and do not reach for your license or other items until the deputy requests them.

Ask any passengers in your car to remain calm and comply with the deputy’s instructions.

Sign the citation if you receive one (this does not mean you are guilty;
it is just your promise to appear in court at a later time.)