passenger in car and armed....

[CalamityJane]

I've tried to get to Packing.org to look for this, but I guess their server is down or something; anyway, I wanted y'alls opinion on this.

I've read the threads of what to do if stopped while driving, and you are carrying; but today, I was riding as a passenger and was carrying, and got to wondering if we had gotten stopped for something, should I disclose my "armed" status, or just sit quietly? I can see why it should be OK to just sit there, but I don't know if it's considered a courtesy (or even law) to let the officer know or not.

I know, really stupid sounding question; just want to be in the right.

Thanks.
CJ

 

[gunsmith]

I would check

the law in your state, these kind of questions are lots easier to answer when we know what state you in (besides a state of panic)

What I would do is be quiet untill asked for ID and handing your DL with your permit to the cop.

This way you notify with alarming him/her

 

[Erebus]

This is for MA but prolly good advice anywhere. The LEOs that gave the firearm safety coarse told us that it isn't illegal to not tell the officer if you are armed unless he asks if you are. If he asks you are required to tell him. They also said either way keep your hands on the wheel and visable and volunteer the info. It does 2 things, eliminates any chance of surprsing him if he happens to spot it and lets him know that you are the responsible type. They both said it really sets them at ease when it's freely volunteered as a level of trust is established.

 

[cropcirclewalker]

Back in '34 the President of the NRA testified before congress during the NFA hearings. He agreed that there was something that needed to be done to protect us from the "Dillinger" types. He was in favor of registration and licensing for the good of the populace.

Remember that.

If you are not a Dillinger type, just keep your eyes down. Don't look them in the eye. Speak only when spoken to. Don't volunteer anything and remember.......

You have the right to remain silent.

 

[real_name]

Cops don't like suprises, it can make them nervous.
I would freely offer the information as soon as it seemed appropriate.

 

[joab]

It does 2 things, eliminates any chance of surprsing him if he happens to spot it and lets him know that you are the responsible type. They both said it really sets them at ease when it's freely volunteered as a level of trust is established.

It can also do two other things, set the officer on edge and get you pulled from the car and frisked to establish that level of trust or dominance.

The cop needs to be in control of the situation and he will do everything in his power to maintain that control, as would you or I.
You introducing another variable into the situation does nothing to set his mind at ease, any cop that tells you it does is simply trying to proactively maintain that control

Keep still , keep quiet, and keep your hands visible in a non dramatic manner.

 

[sm]

Another Source Perhaps

CalamityJane.

Just for you my dear...granted you may share with the rest of the THR members if you wish...

I have not checked for your particular question , still another good source to have.

http://www.handgunlaw.us/

Regards,

Steve

 

[c_yeager]

As a passenger you shouldnt really speak unless spoken to. Are you going to shoot the officer? No? So it isnt going to make him any safer if you volunteer the information. If he asks, tell him the truth. If you end up having to step out of the car or are about to be searched then volunteer the information.

 

[bratch]

Alot of it depends on the state. From what I understand in OK you must inform even as a passenger but thats as far as it goes. They are not able to disarm you.

 

[CalamityJane]

Thanks for the replies. And thanks Steve, for the link; that's a helpful site, I learned a lot.

CJ

 

[NukemJim]

And thanks Steve, for the link; that's a helpful site,

+1

NukemJim

 

[HankB]

TX law requires that you inform the officer you're armed when he asks for ID. This is usually done by handing over your Concealed Handgun License with DL. Some recommend you respond to his request for ID by informing him you hold a CHL before you make any moves towards your wallet. (Don't say you have a gun before you say you have a CHL!)

If you were a cop, which would you rather hear -

"Officer, I have a gun in my pocket, and . . . "

"Officer, I have a current Texas Concealed Handgun License, and . . . "

As a passenger, I'd keep my hands visible, not make any sudden moves, and keep my mouth shut unless/until spoken to.

 

[Waywardmonk]

Years ago when I worked as a cashier and spoke with the cops who would come in ( this is in Nevada ) their opinion was to keep it to myself unless asked to get out of the vehicle. The general consensus seemed to be they didn't need to know about it unless they were going to search you or the car and that is pretty much how I work it now.