Disclosing to L.E. that I'm armed?

[Praxidike]

I know that in VA, CCW Permit holders do not have to immediately disclose to law enforcement that they are armed. I'm wondering if it's a crime to not tell them I have weapons in my car or own my person during a traffic stop or the like if they ask?

I'm asking because I called L.E. on a roommate of mine last year for a non violent dispute that involved my stolen belongings. The operator asked if I had weapons, and I said yes. The officers also asked if I had weapons. I told them about the 2 firearms I had in my car. They wanted to see it, check if it was loaded, and wanted to know what caliber, etc. I believe that they probably listed information this in the police report that had nothing to do with my firearms, violence, or the threat of violence. Now there's a record of exactly what I own that can be easily seen by all government agencies. Before hand, all L.E. knew is that I have a CCW permit and that I did a few background checks (but the background check information should have been destroyed).

For future reference, "if asked" (especially when the situation doesn't warrant it), do I have to tell them I have weapons?

 

[Telekinesis]

It's typically a bad idea to lie to LEOs. Apart from possible legal trouble (idk if there's a requirement to be truthful, but they might try to get you on impeeding an investigation?) they typically have a good BS meter.

If they ask if you have weapons, I'd answer truthfully and maybe tell then where it is if they ask (it's on my hip, or it's in the trunk etc). I would however refuse to give anymore information in regards to number of weapons, type, caliber, or any other identifying characteristics, especially if the guns presence isn't why they contacted you in the first place.

 

[The_Next_Generation]

I'm interested in what folks here have to say. My gut tells me that if a police officer asks, you are probably required to divulge. What happens from there is up to the particular cop.

Last time I was asked it was by WA state patrol following an accident. I told him I had a shotgun and two handguns (both unloaded and cased-up). He told me, "I'm going to pretend I didn't hear that while you throw them in your duffel bag so you can take them with you." (the car was totalled)

YMMV, but at least in my case the guy was obviously a good-egg.

 

[Praxidike]

It's typically a bad idea to lie to LEOs. Apart from possible legal trouble (idk if there's a requirement to be truthful, but they might try to get you on impeeding an investigation?) they typically have a good BS meter.

If they ask if you have weapons, I'd answer truthfully and maybe tell then where it is if they ask (it's on my hip, or it's in the trunk etc). I would however refuse to give anymore information in regards to number of weapons, type, caliber, or any other identifying characteristics, especially if the guns presence isn't why they contacted you in the first place.

I don't mind them know that I'm armed only. I have a problem with them taking it steps further (which in my case they usually do). Does anyone here that lives in a state where you aren't required to notify L.E.s that you're arm have to by law surrender or give them access to your firearms when they should really have no need to have that access?

I've been stop for 1 minor traffic violation and I called them for the incident that happened above. In each case, the officers wanted either view, personally unload, and/or handle my firearm(s).

 

[zxcvbob]

The officers also asked if I had weapons. I told them about the 2 firearms I had in my car. They wanted to see it, check if it was loaded, and wanted to know what caliber, etc.

"Just say No." Actually, tell them to get a warrant if it's that important.

 

[lawson4]

it is a crime to lie to to an officer pursuing an investigation. If he is investigating a fight at a bar, and asks if you were there, don't lie.
If he asks if you are armed, don't lie. If he asks where you were at the park 2 years ago, and he is investigating an armed robbery that happened last night, don't lie (he may information that ties the robbery into the park 2 years ago).

You may want to invoke your right to answer though your attorney, but don't lie.

Rick

 

[Speedo66]

Geez, not this again. My apologies to the OP, but this has been asked here numerous times, sort of like asking which oil is best on an automotive site.

You will get the same divided answers every time. Tell them nothing, tell them everything.

So, here's my take: I tell them up front if I'm carrying, they don't have to ask. My feeling is if the officer see's it by accident, it will only increase my chances of getting injured if he overreacts. Others will tell he you he has no right to overreact. Yeah, I'm sure my widow will be comforted by that.

Just as easy to mention it. Added bonus is now their mind is off ticket, and on gun. Once he or she gets the gun thing squared away, they just might forget about the ticket.

 

[Charlie Horse]

I'll throw in my 2 cents here...

Prax, this varies by agency. I'm willing to bet that when the operator heard "roommate" that the much dreaded "domestic" light flipped on. I've been on more than a few of those, and they range from Mary and John Smith yelling at each other to them shooting at each other. On a domestic call, dispatch either tells that there are weapons at the scene, or the responding officer(s) ask(s) dispatch.

Telekinesis is right. Always be truthful. In a "he said she said" situation, you're success is all about whether or not you are considered to be trustworthy. If you lie and are caught in that lie, you just lost that. Will you "lose" the encounter because of that? maybe. Do you need to take that chance? I wouldn't.

We're not a mandatory disclosure state, but I've had several people hand me their CCW with their driver license. When I see it I know I'm probably not dealing with an international terrorist out for blood. (And no, in Alabama, carry permits are not linked to the driver licence.) I don't care if you have guns in the car. I'm not running the SNs on every gun I find without a reason to. Where I am, I'd do that 24\7 and STILL not get them all run...


zxcvbob - You can ask for a warrant, but you'll be disappointed in how fast that can typically be accomplished. One agency locally has laptops AND cellular fax machines in the cars. The officer detains the subject, then faxes the probable cause affidavit in, is sworn over the phone, and have the warrant faxed back in less than 30 minutes. (This system was set up due to the HIGH level of drug traffic locally.) I'm not saying you don't have the right to demand one, because you do, just don't be surprised when the officer in question doesn't say "Aww shucks!" and walk off and forget the whole thing.

 

[Ryanxia]

I don't say anything, only been stopped once and was wondering if my fairly newly acquired CCW would show up on the computer, officer didn't ask I didn't say, normal stop no ticket. If the officer asked I would confirm but I would refuse (not physically resist) to disarm for the duration of the stop if asked.

I would try to find what the law is specifically in your state, say you said 'no I'm not carrying' and forgot you had a little NAA Pug .22mag in your jacket. Honest mistake, and the only way they'd know you had it is if they searched you which shouldn't happen if you've done nothing wrong and don't consent.

 

[RetiredUSNChief]

Prax, this varies by agency. I'm willing to bet that when the operator heard "roommate" that the much dreaded "domestic" light flipped on. I've been on more than a few of those, and they range from Mary and John Smith yelling at each other to them shooting at each other. On a domestic call, dispatch either tells that there are weapons at the scene, or the responding officer(s) ask(s) dispatch.

Telekinesis is right. Always be truthful. In a "he said she said" situation, you're success is all about whether or not you are considered to be trustworthy. If you lie and are caught in that lie, you just lost that. Will you "lose" the encounter because of that? maybe. Do you need to take that chance? I wouldn't.

We're not a mandatory disclosure state, but I've had several people hand me their CCW with their driver license. When I see it I know I'm probably not dealing with an international terrorist out for blood. (And no, in Alabama, carry permits are not linked to the driver licence.) I don't care if you have guns in the car. I'm not running the SNs on every gun I find without a reason to. Where I am, I'd do that 24\7 and STILL not get them all run...


zxcvbob - You can ask for a warrant, but you'll be disappointed in how fast that can typically be accomplished. One agency locally has laptops AND cellular fax machines in the cars. The officer detains the subject, then faxes the probable cause affidavit in, is sworn over the phone, and have the warrant faxed back in less than 30 minutes. (This system was set up due to the HIGH level of drug traffic locally.) I'm not saying you don't have the right to demand one, because you do, just don't be surprised when the officer in question doesn't say "Aww shucks!" and walk off and forget the whole thing.

Nice to have my gut feelings confirmed this way. Thanks.

In my opinion, and personal experience via the odd traffic stop over the decades, good manners combined with common sense seems to rule the day. Like any other, the officer has a job to do and would really like to be able to complete his shift and go home like every other average person.

The only time I was ever pulled over that I didn't already know the reason was for a brake light that was out. Every other time it was for something that I KNEW I'd screwed up on, mostly speeding. Absolutely no sense in arguing with the officer over something you already knew you were doing wrong.

Window down, hands on the wheel, answer the officer politely, only reach for something when he asks (and tell him where I'm reaching), and a polite "thank you" when parting afterwards. (It ain't sucking up to thank the officer. It's simple good manners I extend to everybody.)

If he/she asks questions, don't lie or mislead. More often than not there will be cues you're not aware of which will tip them off to a lie.

That said, know your rights and know when NOT to answer.

Officer: "May I see your license and registration?"
Me: "Yes, sir. My license is in my wallet in my back pocket and the registration is in the glove compartment."
Officer: "OK. Do you have a weapon in the glove compartment?"
Me: "No, sir."
Officer: "Do you have any weapons in the trunk of your vehicle?"
Me: "Yes, sir."
Officer: "May I see what you have in your trunk?"
Me: "Am I being asked to consent to a search?"

If I'm carrying, then I comply with any state's law which says I must inform a police officer during an official encounter that I'm armed. I'll do this immediately after the officer makes his opening statement in a fashion similar to this:

Officer: May I see your license and registration?"
Me: "Yes, sir. I also have a permit to carry concealed and I do have a gun on my person."

And even if things do start out with an obnoxious officer, there is no profit in escallating the encounter through continued rude exchanges. He's the armed authority figure and the time to address this is LATER. Not in the heat of the moment when things can go really badly as a result.


For all that I've heard of people having negative encounters with officers during traffic stops, I have yet to have any that were anything except polite, professional encounters for the 3 1/2 decades of driving experience that has spanned a great number of states. I would have to say that negative encounters are the exception rather than the rule. (And never once have I been asked to consent to a search.)

 

[zxcvbob]

zxcvbob - You can ask for a warrant, but you'll be disappointed in how fast that can typically be accomplished. One agency locally has laptops AND cellular fax machines in the cars. The officer detains the subject, then faxes the probable cause affidavit in, is sworn over the phone, and have the warrant faxed back in less than 30 minutes. (This system was set up due to the HIGH level of drug traffic locally.) I'm not saying you don't have the right to demand one, because you do, just don't be surprised when the officer in question doesn't say "Aww shucks!" and walk off and forget the whole thing.

I have nothing to hide (that I know of.) I also have nothing to gain by waiving my rights. If nothing else, it might make things a little easier for the next guy that gets asked to consent to a search and tells the officer "No you may not"

 

[jon_in_wv]

Some states require you to notify any officer you have contact with you are armed. If the law does not require it I would keep my mouth shut. If you are at a simple traffic stop, for instance, what does your weapon have to do with anything? NOTHING. An officer is supposed to assume that anyone could be armed, if he is surprised or offended you are legally carrying than he is, in my opinion, an idiot.

Also, remember this simple rule, every encounter involves a weapon, YOURS. And in the case of dealing with an officer his as well. Keep things civil and polite. He may ask to secure your weapon during his dealings with you. I wouldn't escalate the situation by fighting him on that. As far as I'm concerned, the officer is probably safer if you keep your with you.

 

[Bluelight]

Virginia gun law Section 18.2-302.01 states that you do not have to volunteer information. If asked by the officer, however. you are required to comply. Also, the requirement to have your permit on your person was removed when HB26 was passed and signed by the Governor in 2012. You are subject to a $25.00 civil penalty. Non compliance with a police officer would likely result in a little more hassle.

 

[Rule3]

Virginia gun law Section 18.2-302.01 states that you do not have to volunteer information. If asked by the officer, however. you are required to comply. Also, the requirement to have your permit on your person was removed when HB26 was passed and signed by the Governor in 2012. You are subject to a $25.00 civil penalty. Non compliance with a police officer would likely result in a little more hassle.

Thank you. Someone with a answer.

Same as Florida law. We do not have to volunteer the information that we have a concealed weapon . If asked, then YES you are required to notify.But this is concealed carry law not search of your car which is a different issue.

The OP then asked about weapons in the car if they are asked my answer would be yes, to notify them even if they ask do you have a weapon in the trunk.

I see no benefit in lying. If you are allowed to have a weapon in your State and keep it loaded etc etc, in the car or trunk then what's the issue?

 

[Praxidike]

Virginia gun law Section 18.2-302.01 states that you do not have to volunteer information. If asked by the officer, however. you are required to comply. Also, the requirement to have your permit on your person was removed when HB26 was passed and signed by the Governor in 2012. You are subject to a $25.00 civil penalty. Non compliance with a police officer would likely result in a little more hassle.

I looked up the code "18.2-302.0", but could not find it. I also could not find any information regarding me having to comply if asked. Can you link me?

Geez, not this again. My apologies to the OP, but this has been asked here numerous times, sort of like asking which oil is best on an automotive site.

You will get the same divided answers every time. Tell them nothing, tell them everything.

So, here's my take: I tell them up front if I'm carrying, they don't have to ask. My feeling is if the officer see's it by accident, it will only increase my chances of getting injured if he overreacts. Others will tell he you he has no right to overreact. Yeah, I'm sure my widow will be comforted by that.

Just as easy to mention it. Added bonus is now their mind is off ticket, and on gun. Once he or she gets the gun thing squared away, they just might forget about the ticket.

I know this might have been asked before, but I'm asking for specific laws from a legal standpoint and not just opinion or best practice. I do not feel as if I should give up rights, trust, or be a sheep just because a stranger happens to be in uniform and has been given the power to intimidate or make things harder on me if I do not voluntarily give up my rights.

Some states require you to notify any officer you have contact with you are armed. If the law does not require it I would keep my mouth shut. If you are at a simple traffic stop, for instance, what does your weapon have to do with anything? NOTHING. An officer is supposed to assume that anyone could be armed, if he is surprised or offended you are legally carrying than he is, in my opinion, an idiot.

Also, remember this simple rule, every encounter involves a weapon, YOURS. And in the case of dealing with an officer his as well. Keep things civil and polite. He may ask to secure your weapon during his dealings with you. I wouldn't escalate the situation by fighting him on that. As far as I'm concerned, the officer is probably safer if you keep your with you.

Yea this is how I feel. I have nothing against cops and I know they're just doing their job. Still I'm not personally comfortable with them asking to see or handle my firearms. If I have done nothing to warrant them doing so and I have no legal obligation to allow them to, then personally I rather deal with their attitude over it than to be strong armed and intimidated into doing something I do not want to do.

I'm just not sure of what the legal consequences are if any...

 

[zxcvbob]

Keep things civil and polite. He may ask to secure your weapon during his dealings with you.

True, but if it is locked in the truck it is already a lot more secure and safer for everybody than having Deputy Goober fumbling with it. I'm not going to consent to that; he may do it anyway and I won't try to stop him other than voice my nonconsent.

 

[MedWheeler]

Kind of an odd, but related incident that happened to me in September of 1987, four months before I was sworn in as a LEO myself. I was working delivering pizza at the time, and was involved in a traffic accident when another driver ran a stop sign. There were no injuries. The female investigating officer, as she looked over my truck, did not ask me if I had any weapons (I was not licensed to carry at the time.) What she did ask me was "Where's your gun?"

I was bewildered, having no idea she knew there may even be one. There was indeed, a loaded Taurus Model 66 in a holster, in the glove box. I told here where it was, and she opened the glove box to see for herself. She asked if she could unload it, and I suggested she put the rounds in the ashtray, which she did. She put the gun back and nothing further was said about it.

Maybe cops back then just assumed pizza drivers pack.

To the point of this thread, I will likely answer any LEO questions regarding firearms truthfully, unless I myself am under investigation. Then, it would depend on the circumstances as to whether or not I'd answer or exercise the Fifth.

 

[Yarddog]

"zxcvbob - You can ask for a warrant, but you'll be disappointed in how fast that can typically be accomplished. One agency locally has laptops AND cellular fax machines in the cars. The officer detains the subject, then faxes the probable cause affidavit in, is sworn over the phone, and have the warrant faxed back in less than 30 minutes. (This system was set up due to the HIGH level of drug traffic locally.) I'm not saying you don't have the right to demand one, because you do, just don't be surprised when the officer in question doesn't say "Aww shucks!" and walk off and forget the whole thing."

The part in bold,, What exactly would his PC be??
Y/D

 

[jon_in_wv]

Yea this is how I feel. I have nothing against cops and I know they're just doing their job. Still I'm not personally comfortable with them asking to see or handle my firearms. If I have done nothing to warrant them doing so and I have no legal obligation to allow them to, then personally I rather deal with their attitude over it than to be strong armed and intimidated into doing something I do not want to do.

I'm just not sure of what the legal consequences are if any...

Well, if the cops are in the course of an investigation and you are detained in any way they may cite officer safety as the reason to take control of your weapon. If you further escalate the situation by refusing you will likely be arrested. If a judge agrees with the "officer safety" argument, which they often do, I would wager a little jail time may be in your future. Besides, lets say hypothetically, you refuse to surrender your weapon and they try to take it. What is your course of action? Do you fight them? If they draw do you? If shots are fired what possible justification is a court of law going to buy you were justified in shooting a police officer? Personally, I would NOT want to be in that situation if I can avoid it by surrendering my weapon or offering to secure it myself. At least if any impropriety happens I will have a chance of the law being on my side.

 

[Nighteyes]

I'm in Southern California. I have twice been stopped when I had one or more firearms in the vehicle with me. Both times I told the officer as soon as feasible. Never had a moment's difficulty either.

Example: On the way home from a cowboy action shooting competition, I ran a newly-installed stop sign. (I have traveled that road for 15 years, and the sign went up earlier that week -- I wasn't expecting it and didn't see it.) Next thing I knew, a sheriff's patrol car was behind me with its lights on. Naturally I activated my turn signal and pulled over asap.

When I told the deputy I had firearms in the vehicle (a Ford Explorer), he asked where they were. "In the back, unloaded and in locked cases. The ammunition is in a separate locked case."

Looking at my dusty Old-West clothing, he asked what kind of firearms they were.

"Two single-action pistols, two lever-action rifles and a double-barreled shotgun."

He suppressed a grin, gave me a verbal warning, returned my license and registration, and let me go.

 

[Praxidike]

Kind of an odd, but related incident that happened to me in September of 1987, four months before I was sworn in as a LEO myself. I was working delivering pizza at the time, and was involved in a traffic accident when another driver ran a stop sign. There were no injuries. The female investigating officer, as she looked over my truck, did not ask me if I had any weapons (I was not licensed to carry at the time.) What she did ask me was "Where's your gun?"

I was bewildered, having no idea she knew there may even be one. There was indeed, a loaded Taurus Model 66 in a holster, in the glove box. I told here where it was, and she opened the glove box to see for herself. She asked if she could unload it, and I suggested she put the rounds in the ashtray, which she did. She put the gun back and nothing further was said about it.

Maybe cops back then just assumed pizza drivers pack.

To the point of this thread, I will likely answer any LEO questions regarding firearms truthfully, unless I myself am under investigation. Then, it would depend on the circumstances as to whether or not I'd answer or exercise the Fifth.

Mines were in the trunk of the car. The officer already ran my information and knew I was legally able to carry. I think Charlie Horse is a LEO and as he stated:

I'm willing to bet that when the operator heard "roommate" that the much dreaded "domestic" light flipped on. I've been on more than a few of those, and they range from Mary and John Smith yelling at each other to them shooting at each other. On a domestic call, dispatch either tells that there are weapons at the scene, or the responding officer(s) ask(s) dispatch.

I agree that is what may have happened, but after they were there and could see that it was a nonviolent dispute that I called them for, it made no sense to me for the officer to want to know what other weapons I had, if he could see it, and if he could open up the case they were in to inspect them to see if they were loaded.

After thinking about it and what pissed me off is that I realized that they most likely wanted to know so that he could add the information to the report to be readily available for future investigations involving me or just in case I were to use them against my former roommate or else where. I have no problem with them simply knowing I/m armed, but I'm not comfortable taking it to that extent and I'm curious to know if I'm obligated to show officers anything more than my government issued ID and CCW permit.

 

[Praxidike]

Well, if the cops are in the course of an investigation and you are detained in any way they may cite officer safety as the reason to take control of your weapon. If you further escalate the situation by refusing you will likely be arrested. If a judge agrees with the "officer safety" argument, which they often do, I would wager a little jail time may be in your future. Besides, lets say hypothetically, you refuse to surrender your weapon and they try to take it. What is your course of action? Do you fight them? If they draw do you? If shots are fired what possible justification is a court of law going to buy you were justified in shooting a police officer? Personally, I would NOT want to be in that situation if I can avoid it by surrendering my weapon or offering to secure it myself. At least if any impropriety happens I will have a chance of the law being on my side.

I'm asking here if anyone know of such a law. If there is a law, then I'll abide by it. If there is not, then I will not regardless of the officer's reaction. I just do not agree with the practice of some officers strong arming citizens into giving up rights unless they get their way. If he insist on taking it anyway, I will not fight, but I will make about the biggest fuss about it that I can. That way it is at least brought to his attention that what he has done is not legal.

 

[david bachelder]

Applies if you are a Texas licensed driver in the state of Texas operating a vehicle on a public road.

Laws vary from state to state. What is legal in your state may be illegal in another. I'm in Texas. Permitted Folks are not required to inform law officers they are armed during a traffic stop. However when the officer runs your license number the record will show that you have a CHL (Concealed Handgun License). At that point he will ask you if you are carrying. If so you must state the truth, lying will jeopardize your permit. We are trained to show our permit when we present our drivers license to any Texas officer. This will avoid an awkward situation.

If you do not have a permit, I'm not sure if you have to claim the firearm or not. I'd bet it would be uncomfortable if you didn't claim it and it was found.

Yes, Texans can carry a concealed weapon in their vehicle in the state of Texas weather they are permitted or not. This is thanks to the Castle Laws.

If you do not possess a Texas drivers license and you are stopped by a Texas Officer, I'm not sure what would happen if you did not claim your firearm.

I know Texas has reciprocal agreements with many other states. I assume a permit form your state of residence would also pass muster.

 

[km101]

Applies if you are a Texas licensed driver in the state of Texas operating a vehicle on a public road.

Laws vary from state to state. What is legal in your state may be illegal in another. I'm in Texas. Permitted Folks are not required to inform law officers they are armed during a traffic stop. However when the officer runs your license number the record will show that you have a CHL (Concealed Handgun License). At that point he will ask you if you are carrying. If so you must state the truth, lying will jeopardize your permit. We are trained to show our permit when we present our drivers license to any Texas officer. This will avoid an awkward situation.

If you do not have a permit, I'm not sure if you have to claim the firearm or not. I'd bet it would be uncomfortable if you didn't claim it and it was found.

Yes, Texans can carry a concealed weapon in their vehicle in the state of Texas weather they are permitted or not. This is thanks to the Castle Laws.

If you do not possess a Texas drivers license and you are stopped by a Texas Officer, I'm not sure what would happen if you did not claim your firearm.

I know Texas has reciprocal agreements with many other states. I assume a permit form your state of residence would also pass muster.

david, you may want to check your CHL handbook again.

According to GC 411.207 REQUIREMENT TO DISPLAY LICENSE (a)
If a license holder is carrying a handgun on or about the license holder's person when a magistrate or peace officer demands that the license holder display identification, the license holder shall display both the license holder's drivers license or identification certificate issued by the department and the license holder's handgun license.

So you have to give him your CHL with your license when stopped. (If you don't, this is cause for suspension or revocation if the officer files a complaint.) This will automatically cause him to believe that you are armed, and he will ask if you have a weapon whether you volunteer the information or not. So in effect, you are required to inform the officer because you are required to give him your CHL with your DL.

 

[BSA1]

I am answering this as a LEO with over 35 years of experience and with a college degree in C.J. along with Master Programs.

The main issue I see is folks are intimidated by the Police and simply do not know what the extent of Police authority is and what their rights are to refuse Police requests and answer Police questions. The lawyers on the line are going to disagree with me so take it for what it is worth.

First and foremost you should always comply with the laws of your State and Community. If your State requires you to notify Police that you are packing then by all means do it.

Now for what you are required to do based on my 35+ years of experience;

"My gut tells me that if a police officer asks, you are probably required to divulge."

What your “gut” tells you may be considerably different than what the law says.

"Does anyone here that lives in a state where you aren't required to notify L.E.s that you're arm have to by law surrender or give them access to your firearms when they should really have no need to have that access?"

Yes I do.

"it is a crime to lie to to an officer pursuing an investigation."

A officer asking a question is not necessarily an “investigation.” If a LEO asks me if I am packing or have a weapon in my vehicle my response will be "Why do you ask?" It the Officer can articulate what to me is reasonable reason then I will answer his questions and be cooperative.

For example; The Officer says there was fight at Joe’s Bar where someone was shot and the suspect was seen driving away in a vehicle similar to yours. I would cooperate so the officer can finish his business with me as quickly as possible and get back on the road looking for the right person.

On the other hand if the officer says something like “Oh I just asking” then I am not going to answer his question. My response would probably be something along the line of “Do I look a criminal? If so why do you think so, etc.”

"Well, if the cops are in the course of an investigation and you are detained in any way they may cite officer safety as the reason to take control of your weapon. If you further escalate the situation by refusing you will likely be arrested."

Resistance on the street is futile. This battle should be fought in court with good lawyer.

Never, ever consent to search of your vehicle. Even if you don’t have what the officer is looking for you can be arrested for other contraband/illegal items you have forgot about.

As for lying to officer I supposed you could be arrested. But over 20 years of reviewing thousands, yes thousands, of conviction records of inmates I never ever had a case where the inmate was convicted of lying to a officer. Think about this for a minute, criminals almost always lie, at least at first, to the Police.

Frankly I have no problem being deceitful or evasive to the Police if either I believe not have a valid, legal reason to ask me that question or if the Officer can not articulate a reason. Keeping my big mouth shut is legal also and usually good advice .But I will admit that I have extensive experience and education in law enforcement so it easy for me to know when and what is a valid reason to be honest and cooperative and when to tell the Officer to go pound sand.

One final point. With today’s cell phone technology it is easy to record video or audio of someone. Use it to record your contact with Police. It keeps both parties honest…LEO’s from false claims and the citizen from false arrest