"It looks like R2-D2." "You can't fix stupid." "Don't eat the last taco." Summary In this episode, we discuss various topics related to law enforcement, including updates on their lives, pursuit techniques, car theft prevention, legal questions regarding vehicle modifications, interactions during traffic stops, domestic violence issues, and amusing stories about stupid criminals. With emphasis the importance of safety and legal knowledge while sharing personal anecdotes and insights from their experiences in law enforcement. Takeaways The importance of staying updated on law enforcement techniques. New technologies like GPS tracker darts are changing pursuits. Car theft is a growing concern, especially with key fob vulnerabilities. Legal questions often require consulting local DMV or highway patrol. Proper conduct during traffic stops can enhance safety for both drivers and officers. Domestic violence situations require careful handling and legal awareness. Anonymous tips can lead to serious investigations by law enforcement. Stupid criminal stories highlight the absurdity of some situations. Humor is essential in dealing with the darker sides of law enforcement. Always prioritize safety and legal compliance in all situations. If you would like us to try to answer your questions please submit your question on our site.  

Summary Pardon the audio issues this week, the show was interrupted with a major power failure that could easily have been caused by a potential zombie invasion in progress. But we tried to patch it all back together. We leave in the incident to show we are humans just like all of our listeners and because chaos can be more fun to listen too. In this episode of the podcast, we discuss various topics related to law enforcement, including the use of bullet-resistant vests, retrieving personal belongings after a dispute, eligibility for becoming a police officer with a felony conviction, and the complexities of divorce and property disputes. We also share personal experiences with police pursuits, signs of kidnapping and sex trafficking, and the legality of aftermarket vehicle modifications. Additionally, they address the legality of driving topless in Michigan and police protocol in murder cases, concluding with a discussion on the legal implications of opening someone else's mail. Takeaways The use of bullet-resistant vests is often for the protection of high-profile suspects. Retrieving personal belongings can be complicated, especially across state lines. Expunged felony convictions may not always disqualify someone from becoming a police officer. Divorce disputes can complicate property retrieval, requiring legal advice. Police pursuit policies vary by agency and can impact crime rates. Signs of potential kidnapping or trafficking can be subtle and require vigilance. Aftermarket vehicle modifications may not meet legal standards and can lead to traffic stops. Driving topless may be considered indecent exposure in some states. Police protocol for questioning murder suspects typically involves detaining them for safety. Opening someone else's mail can have legal implications, especially for minors. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:03 Understanding Bullet-Resistant Vests 05:02 Retrieving Personal Belongings 07:44 Eligibility to Become a Police Officer 10:19 Divorce and Property Disputes 13:30 Police Pursuits: Experiences and Policies 22:19 Signs of Kidnapping and Sex Trafficking 27:43 Aftermarket Vehicle Modifications 32:49 Driving Topless: Legal Considerations 35:46 Police Protocol in Murder Cases 36:47 Opening Mail: Legal Implications

Summary In this episode, we discuss various topics related to law enforcement, including the criteria for 5150 holds, current crime trends such as jewelry thefts and vehicle thefts, and the legal landscape surrounding ATVs and knives. We also delve into the complexities of traffic stops, the effectiveness of warnings versus tickets, and the unique challenges posed by bounty hunters. Additionally, the episode features humorous anecdotes from patrol experiences and addresses safety concerns regarding airsoft and gel blasting guns. The conversation wraps up with a look at unusual crime stories making headlines. Takeaways Open mics can lead to humorous and awkward situations for officers. 5150 holds are based on the criteria of danger to self or others. Current crime trends include jewelry thefts and vehicle thefts for criminal activities. Stolen vehicles are often used in other crimes, creating a cycle of danger. ATV regulations vary by state, with specific licensing requirements. Knife laws differ significantly between states, especially regarding blade length. Traffic stops can be influenced by the norms of driving behavior in an area. Warnings can sometimes be more effective than tickets in changing driver behavior. The presence of recording devices has changed interactions between police and the public. Bounty hunters have different legal requirements and can create dangerous situations. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Recap of Previous Episode 03:07 Understanding 5150 Holds and Mental Health Interventions 05:55 Current Crime Trends: Jewelry Swaps and Vehicle Thefts 08:48 The Impact of Stolen Vehicles on Crime 11:50 ATV Regulations and Licensing in Arizona 14:41 Knife Laws and Carrying Regulations 17:33 Traffic Stops and Police Accountability 20:17 The Role of Warnings vs. Tickets 23:16 The Influence of Norms on Traffic Enforcement 25:49 Funny Tales from Patrol 28:47 Airsoft and Gel Blasting Guns: Safety Concerns 31:42 Crazy Encounters with Law Enforcement 34:20 Handling Domestic Violence Situations 37:03 Bounty Hunters and Legal Implications 39:47 Window Tint Laws and Enforcement 42:37 In the News: Unusual Crime Stories 01:01:33 Police_Remix_2.mp3

Summary In this episode, the we discuss various topics related to law enforcement, including the role of social workers in police work, the dynamics of traffic stops, mental health issues, personal anecdotes from their experiences, legal questions regarding traffic stops and gun laws, neighborhood conflicts, and career aspirations in law enforcement. The conversation highlights the challenges and complexities faced by police officers in today's society. We also discuss various legal questions and scenarios, ranging from neighborhood confrontations and public safety to privacy rights and DUI laws. They explore the implications of public information, the legality of recording others, and the rights of individuals in public parks. The conversation also touches on parental rights, electric bike regulations, and the use of force in property protection. Additionally, the hosts share humorous and absurd news stories about criminal behavior, highlighting the often ridiculous lengths to which individuals will go to evade the law. "We made it to episode two!" "Don't break into Ed's house!" "Can I call the police on him?" Takeaways Social workers are increasingly being sent to 5150 calls. Traffic stops can escalate quickly, especially with instigators. Mental health issues are a growing concern in law enforcement. Body cameras can protect officers during interactions. Honesty is crucial when applying for police positions. The legal landscape for gun ownership varies significantly by state. Community relations are essential for effective policing. Personal anecdotes can provide insight into police work. Navigating difficult neighbors can be a challenge for residents. Joining the military can be a viable path to law enforcement. Neighborhood dynamics can complicate confrontations. Public information laws vary by state. DUI arrests can have different legal implications based on circumstances. Recording others can raise privacy concerns. Public parks should be accessible to all without unnecessary confrontation. Parental rights can be complex, especially for minors. Electric bike regulations differ by state and county. Use of force laws vary significantly by location. DUI laws for RVs can depend on whether the vehicle is parked or in use. Criminal behavior often leads to humorous and absurd situations. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Current Events 03:04 Social Workers in Law Enforcement 05:58 Traffic Stops and Public Interactions 08:48 Mental Health and Law Enforcement 11:51 Personal Stories from the Field 14:38 Gun Laws and Regulations 17:29 Navigating Legal Complexities 20:15 Advice for Aspiring Officers 23:24 Dealing with Difficult Neighbors 38:26 Confrontations and Neighborhood Dynamics 40:57 Public Information and Privacy Concerns 43:11 Legal Implications of DUI Arrests 45:59 Recording and Surveillance Issues 49:36 Public Park Access and Rights 52:26 Parental Rights and Responsibilities 53:32 Electric Bike Regulations 58:39 Use of Force and Property Protection 01:04:49 DUI Laws and RVs 01:08:58 Stupid Criminals in the News Feel free to submit your questions here: https://www.coptalk.info/askacop to ask your questions

Summary In this episode of the CopTalk podcast, Brent, Mark, and Ed reunite after 15 years to discuss their lives, careers, and the relevance of past discussions in today's context. They address listener questions on various topics, including mental health, custody exchanges, police procedures, traffic safety, and online security. The conversation emphasizes the importance of seeking help, understanding law enforcement practices, and staying safe in both physical and digital environments. The episode concludes with reflections on some current events.Takeaways The podcast has returned after 15 years. Life updates reveal diverse career paths. Past discussions remain relevant today. Listeners are encouraged to ask questions. Mental health support is crucial. Civil standbys can ensure safe custody exchanges. Understanding police procedures is important. Seatbelt use significantly impacts safety. Online security is a growing concern. Humor and anecdotes enrich the conversation.Chapters 56:04 Future Podcast Plans and Closing Thoughts 00:00 Reunion and Reflections on the Past Podcast 02:53 Life Updates and Career Transitions 05:55 The Relevance of Past Discussions 08:36 Addressing Listener Questions 14:40 Mental Health and Seeking Help 19:34 Custody Exchanges and Safety Concerns 25:04 Handling Unusual Situations in Law Enforcement 28:15 Responding to Non-Emergency Calls 30:37 The Importance of Valid Search Warrants 33:15 Seatbelt Safety and Public Perception 38:33 Dealing with Online Security Breaches 42:04 Addressing Paranoia and Conspiracy Theories 44:30 Traffic Laws and Turning at Intersections 46:03 Traffic Laws and Helmet Regulations 47:24 Vehicle Lighting Regulations in Michigan 50:22 Handling Unusual Arrest Situations Feel free to submit your questions here: https://www.coptalk.info/askacop to ask your questions  

Feel free to ignore this test file - We need to put it up to make sure all podcast links are updating properly. Do not mind the mess as we work to get our almost 20 year plus podcast back up and running for future episodes answering your questions. Feel free to submit your questions here: https://www.coptalk.info/askacop to ask your questions

In the News Cameras and the Police - More coming in the next show.... NY Protests In The News: http://www.azcentral.com/video/1150177012001 Phoenix Az brothel poses as church http://www.contracostatimes.com/weird-news/ci_18884594 Courts--Man sues white castle over booth size http://www.contracostatimes.com/weird-news/ci_18883879 burglar tries to claim reward money http://policelink.monster.com/news/articles/155535-off-duty-cop-dressed-as-clown-kills-teen-robber http://www.ohio.com/news/break-news/jail-inmate-lack-of-porn-violates-u-s-constitution-1.223893 http://policelink.monster.com/news/articles/155485-didnt-expect-to-lose-finger-says-man-who-shot-off-wart http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/09/12/man-who-exposed-himself-t_n_958955.html#s359950&title=Daphne_Melin http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/09/15/gumby-theif-boss-joe-clokey-robbery-video_n_963507.html Gumby Robbery NJ police chief: Double-parking wife not above law The Associated Press Posted: 09/29/2011 10:14:13 AM PDT LODI, N.J. A New Jersey police chief says "no one is above the law”, not even his wife. Lodi (LOH'-deye) Police Chief Vincent Caruso ordered an officer to ticket his wife after she double parked while dropping off their 5-year-old son at school. Caruso told The Record newspaper ( http://bit.ly/pksv9y) he didn't want her to get any special treatment because of who she is. The chief paid the $54 ticket. It's not the first time for Paula Caruso. The chief ordered another officer to ticket her two years ago, after she forgot to move their vehicle for street cleaning. The chief told the newspaper, he loves his wife and she's very busy driving their four sons around. His wife couldn't be reached for comment Thursday. The Carusos' phone number is unlisted. Associated Press Posted: 10/03/2011 08:27:37 AM PDT Updated: 10/03/2011 08:29:33 AM PDT OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) -- An Oakland officer's city-issued video camera shows the shooting death of an armed suspect during a struggle with police. The Police Department won't release details on what is depicted in the video of the Sept. 25 incident. The San Francisco Chronicle says the city of Oakland paid $540,000 for 350 wearable cameras last year from Vievu of Seattle. The cameras are worn on the chest of officers. Investigators say two officers pulled over a car and the passenger, who had a gun and drugs, fled on foot. One of the officers caught the suspect and shot him during a struggle. The name of the suspect and the officers has been withheld. A pair of Alabama conservation enforcement officers think they've come up with the perfect way for avid hunters to honor their loved ones for eternity. Officers Thad Holmes and Clem Parnell have launched Holy Smoke LLC, a company that will, for a price, load cremated human ash into shotgun shells, and rifle and pistol cartridges. It's the perfect life celebration for someone who loves the outdoors or shooting sports, Parnell says. "This isn't a joke. It's a job that we take very seriously," he said. "This is a reverent business. We take the utmost care in what we do and show the greatest respect for the remains." The company, launched in July, shipped out its first two orders on Sept. 16 - one from Florida and one from Kentucky - Holmes says. It has established www.myholysmoke.com to promote the service and traffic on it has been growing, Holmes says. For $850, one pound of ash will be loaded into 250 shotgun shells. The ash is mixed in the cups that hold the shot, not the powder. The same amount of ash will fill the bullets of 100 standard caliber center-fire rifle rounds or 250 pistol rounds. For the rifle and pistol ammunition, the ash is put into the tips of hollow-point bullets with the cavity sealed with wax. Any remaining ash is shipped back to the customer, along with the loaded ammunition. "Some people have been concerned that a small amount of ash will remain in the animal that is shot with the ammunition, Holmes said. "But it's just carbon, and a small amount at that. You don't have anything to worry about." The process takes about 48 hours from the time the ashes are received, Holmes said. "The people we use are all experienced reloaders and know exactly what we want them to do, he said. "Only one bag of ash will be opened at a time, and the equipment will be thoroughly cleaned before the next set of remains is loaded. Tim Godwin, a Montgomery landscaping company owner and avid hunter, says he sees no problem with the practice. "People have had their ashes sprinkled in rivers and the ocean, there have been ashes spread out of airplanes," he said. "If you love hunting or the outdoors, this really isn't much different." People should take care in with how the meat that is shot with this ammunition is handled, cautions Robert Chapin, a toxicologist who worked for 18 years at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. The animal should be killed quickly by the shot, to prevent any possibility of spreading the ashes in the animal's blood, he says. The area around where the animal was struck should not be consumed. "I would expect that the ashes would pose less of a problem than any lead pellets historically used," Chapin says. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Serious crimes to warn people about http://www.contracostatimes.com/crime-courts/ci_18884334 SJSU sexual assault (Don't walk alone, don't take risk) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- And a recent local robbery where 2 suspects used a ruse to get an elderly couple in their 70's to open their door at 0130 hrs, tied up the woman and beat the man until he opened a safe. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Subject: New California law bans warrantless cell phone searches http://edition.cnn.com/2011/09/20/tech/mobile/california-phone-search-law/ New law bans warrantless cell phone searches Editor's note: Amy Gahran writes about mobile tech for CNN.com. She is a San Francisco Bay Area writer and media consultant whose blog, Contentious.com, explores how people communicate in the online age. (CNN) -- If you get arrested in California for any reason, the photos, e-mails and other personal data on your cell phone are now a bit safer from prying police eyes. A new law now requires law-enforcement officers in that state to obtain a warrant before searching the cell phone of a person placed under arrest. This law overrides a January ruling by the California Supreme Court. According to California Sen. Mark Leno, who sponsored the legislation, this ruling had "legalized the warrantless search of cell phones during an arrest, regardless of whether the information on the phone is relevant to the arrest or if criminal charges are ever filed." The new California law unanimously passed in the state Assembly. Today the office of Gov. Jerry Brown confirmed that since the governor did not make a specific decision on this legislation, it became automatically enrolled as a law this week. Under this legislation, California law enforcement officers must first obtain a search warrant when there is probable cause to believe a suspect's portable electronic device contains evidence of a crime. The Peace Officers Research Association of California, which opposed the law, argued: "Restricting the authority of a peace officer to search an arrestee unduly restricts their ability to apply the law, fight crime, discover evidence valuable to an investigation and protect the citizens of California." The California legislature disagreed, finding that "once in the exclusive control of the police, cellular telephones do not ordinarily pose a threat to officer safety." Furthermore, lawmakers found that existing practices -- including confiscating the phone (without searching it) or promptly applying to a judge for a search warrant -- alleviate concerns about destruction of evidence. This isn't just about cell phones. The wording of this law specifically refers to "portable electronic devices," defined as: "any portable device that is capable of creating, receiving, accessing, or storing electronic data or communications." So in addition to cell phones this might conceivably cover tablet computers, laptops, netbooks, e-readers, media players, gaming devices, digital cameras, audio recorders, external hard drives, flash drives and other devices available now or in the future. The new law can strengthen the rights to freedom of speech and assembly in California. The prior court ruling -- though aimed mainly at gathering evidence about criminal activity such as drug deals or prostitution -- also could be used by police to gain intelligence about the identities or activities of people at protests or other public or private gatherings. Hanni Fakhoury, staff attorney for the Electronic Frontier Foundation, explained why law-abiding citizens should worry about warrantless cell phone searches. "It's really easy to pick on people who have been arrested and charged with crimes. But that subset could get expanded to cover everyone. Also, an arrest is not the same as a conviction." The new law also strengthens California's protections for journalists and their sources, according to the California Newspaper Publishers Association. The state's "shield law," which prohibits the state or other litigants from subpoenaing reporters' unpublished notes or other sensitive information related to their work. Many reporters keep such information on their cell phones and other devices, and it's not unheard of for journalists to get arrested in California. Fakhoury noted that once police do obtain a warrant to search an arrestee's phone

In the News Cameras and the Police - More coming in the next show.... NY Protests In The News: http://www.azcentral.com/video/1150177012001 Phoenix Az brothel poses as church http://www.contracostatimes.com/weird-news/ci_18884594 Courts--Man sues white castle over booth size http://www.contracostatimes.com/weird-news/ci_18883879 burglar tries to claim reward money http://policelink.monster.com/news/articles/155535-off-duty-cop-dressed-as-clown-kills-teen-robber http://www.ohio.com/news/break-news/jail-inmate-lack-of-porn-violates-u-s-constitution-1.223893 http://policelink.monster.com/news/articles/155485-didnt-expect-to-lose-finger-says-man-who-shot-off-wart http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/09/12/man-who-exposed-himself-t_n_958955.html#s359950&title=Daphne_Melin http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/09/15/gumby-theif-boss-joe-clokey-robbery-video_n_963507.html Gumby Robbery NJ police chief: Double-parking wife not above law The Associated Press Posted: 09/29/2011 10:14:13 AM PDT LODI, N.J. A New Jersey police chief says no one is above the law, not even his wife. Lodi (LOH'-deye) Police Chief Vincent Caruso ordered an officer to ticket his wife after she double parked while dropping off their 5-year-old son at school. Caruso told The Record newspaper ( http://bit.ly/pksv9y) he didn't want her to get any special treatment because of who she is. The chief paid the $54 ticket. It's not the first time for Paula Caruso. The chief ordered another officer to ticket her two years ago after she forgot to move their vehicle for street cleaning. The chief told the newspaper he loves his wife and she's very busy driving their four sons around. His wife couldn't be reached for comment Thursday. The Carusos' phone number is unlisted. Associated Press Posted: 10/03/2011 08:27:37 AM PDT Updated: 10/03/2011 08:29:33 AM PDT OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) -- An Oakland officer's city-issued video camera shows the shooting death of an armed suspect during a struggle with police. The Police Department won't release details on what is depicted in the video of the Sept. 25 incident. The San Francisco Chronicle says the city of Oakland paid $540,000 for 350 wearable cameras last year from Vievu of Seattle. The cameras are worn on the chest of officers. Investigators say two officers pulled over a car and the passenger, who had a gun and drugs, fled on foot. One of the officers caught the suspect and shot him during a struggle. The name of the suspect and the officers has been withheld. A pair of Alabama conservation enforcement officers think they've come up with the perfect way for avid hunters to honor their loved ones for eternity. Officers Thad Holmes and Clem Parnell have launched Holy Smoke LLC, a company that will, for a price, load cremated human ash into shotgun shells, and rifle and pistol cartridges. It's the perfect life celebration for someone who loves the outdoors or shooting sports, Parnell says. "This isn't a joke. It's a job that we take very seriously," he said. "This is a reverent business. We take the utmost care in what we do and show the greatest respect for the remains." The company, launched in July, shipped out its first two orders on Sept. 16 - one from Florida and one from Kentucky - Holmes says. It has established www.myholysmoke.com to promote the service and traffic on it has been growing , Holmes says. For $850, one pound of ash will be loaded into 250 shotgun shells. The ash is mixed in the cups that hold the shot, not the powder. The same amount of ash will fill the bullets of 100 standard caliber center-fire rifle rounds or 250 pistol rounds. For the rifle and pistol ammunition, the ash is put into the tips of hollow-point bullets with the cavity sealed with wax. Any remaining ash is shipped back to the customer, along with the loaded ammunition. "Some people have been concerned that a small amount of ash will remain in the animal that is shot with the ammunition, Holmes said. "But it's just carbon, and a small amount at that. You don't have anything to worry about." The process takes about 48 hours from the time the ashes are received, Holmes said. "The people we use are all experienced reloaders and know exactly what we want them to do, he said. "Only one bag of ash will be opened at a time, and the equipment will be thoroughly cleaned before the next set of remains is loaded. Tim Godwin, a Montgomery landscaping company owner and avid hunter, says he sees no problem with the practice. "People have had their ashes sprinkled in rivers and the ocean, there have been ashes spread out of airplanes," he said. "If you love hunting or the outdoors, this really isn't much different." People should take care in with how the meat that is shot with this ammunition is handled, cautions Robert Chapin, a toxicologist who worked for 18 years at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. The animal should be killed quickly by the shot, to prevent any possibility of spreading the ashes in the animal's blood, he says. The area around where the animal was struck should not be consumed. "I would expect that the ashes would pose less of a problem than any lead pellets historically used," Chapin says. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Serious crimes to warn people about http://www.contracostatimes.com/crime-courts/ci_18884334 SJSU sexual assault  (Don't walk alone, don't take risk) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- And a recent local robbery where 2 suspects used a ruse to get an elderly couple in their 70's to open their door at 0130 hrs, tied up the woman and beat the man until he opened a safe. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Subject: New California law bans warrantless cell phone searches http://edition.cnn.com/2011/09/20/tech/mobile/california-phone-search-law/ New law bans warrantless cell phone searches Editor's note: Amy Gahran writes about mobile tech for CNN.com. She is a San Francisco Bay Area writer and media consultant whose blog, Contentious.com, explores how people communicate in the online age. (CNN) -- If you get arrested in California for any reason, the photos, e-mails and other personal data on your cell phone are now a bit safer from prying police eyes. A new law now requires law-enforcement officers in that state to obtain a warrant before searching the cell phone of a person placed under arrest. This law overrides a January ruling by the California Supreme Court. According to California Sen. Mark Leno, who sponsored the legislation, this ruling had "legalized the warrantless search of cell phones during an arrest, regardless of whether the information on the phone is relevant to the arrest or if criminal charges are ever filed." The new California law unanimously passed in the state Assembly. Today the office of Gov. Jerry Brown confirmed that since the governor did not make a specific decision on this legislation, it became automatically enrolled as a law this week. Under this legislation, California law enforcement officers must first obtain a search warrant when there is probable cause to believe a suspect's portable electronic device contains evidence of a crime. The Peace Officers Research Association of California, which opposed the law, argued: "Restricting the authority of a peace officer to search an arrestee unduly restricts their ability to apply the law, fight crime, discover evidence valuable to an investigation and protect the citizens of California." The California legislature disagreed, finding that "once in the exclusive control of the police, cellular telephones do not ordinarily pose a threat to officer safety." Furthermore, lawmakers found that existing practices -- including confiscating the phone (without searching it) or promptly applying to a judge for a search warrant -- alleviate concerns about destruction of evidence. This isn't just about cell phones. The wording of this law specifically refers to "portable electronic devices," defined as: "any portable device that is capable of creating, receiving, accessing, or storing electronic data or communications." So in addition to cell phones this might conceivably cover tablet computers, laptops, netbooks, e-readers, media players, gaming devices, digital cameras, audio recorders, external hard drives, flash drives and other devices available now or in the future. The new law can strengthen the rights to freedom of speech and assembly in California. The prior court ruling -- though aimed mainly at gathering evidence about criminal activity such as drug deals or prostitution -- also could be used by police to gain intelligence about the identities or activities of people at protests or other public or private gatherings. Hanni Fakhoury, staff attorney for the Electronic Frontier Foundation, explained why law-abiding citizens should worry about warrantless cell phone searches. "It's really easy to pick on people who have been arrested and charged with crimes. But that subset could get expanded to cover everyone. Also, an arrest is not the same as a conviction." The new law also strengthens California's protections for journalists and their sources, according to the California Newspaper Publishers Association. The state's "shield law," which prohibits the state or other litigants from subpoenaing reporters' unpublished notes or other sensitive information related to their work. Many reporters keep such information on their cell phones and other devices, and it's not unheard of for journalists to get arrested in California. Fakhoury noted that once police do obtain a warrant to search an arrestee's phone o

Ask a Cop? If the police break down your door, do they have to pay for it? Can a cop browse my phone if I am arrested? If you are pulled over by a police officer, what is the minimum required level of compliance? Do passengers need to provide ID? Can they search your car? Do you need to answer their questions? How can you verify the identity of someone who claims to be a police officer? In closing: Website www.coptalk.info Stitcher.com Subscribe and give us a review on itunes Ask a cop section? Please ask your questions… Email Subscription – Sign Up on the site Thanks for your support over the past 10 years and thanks for continuing to follow our site STAY SAFE! Please send in your questions: http://www.coptalk.info/ask-a-cop-ask-us-a-question/

Ask a Cop? How long can a cop follow me?: Thanks Sarah In colorado, how long can a cop follow you before turning on his lights if he says that your a danger to other people...should't he pull you over right away? Ask a Cop? How Do You Handle Police Misconduct? Do off-duty police officers have the same authority as working officers? Is it legal for people to take a photo or record video of suspicious activity and send it to the police? If you pull over someone and they start video taping you - how do you handle that? NEWS: Most California's parolees return to prison within two years By Phillip Reese [email protected] Published: Friday, Jun. 3, 2011 - 9:46 am Last Modified: Friday, Jun. 3, 2011 - 10:34 am Five years ago, the state paroled 69,000 prisoners - a normal year. Within two years, about 36,000 were back in prison, according to the latest data from the state Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. About two thirds of parolees released to the Sacramento region were back in prison within two years. Car thieves were the most likely parolees to come back to prison quickly statewide; murderers were the least likely. This chart shows the number of prisoners paroled during 2006, along with percentage who came back to prison one or two years later. Murder Case Dropped Against Immigrant After Botched Translation of Rights REYNOLDSBURG, OH – An aggravated murder case against an illegal immigrant in Ohio has been dropped because a judge ruled that a Spanish interpreter botched reading the man his rights during a police interview. “His statements were the cornerstone of our case,†Wodarcyk told the newspaper. “We were left with insufficient evidence to go forward and have any reasonable chance of succeeding at trial.†Assistant prosecutor Mark Wodarcyk said there wasn’t sufficient evidence to go to trial after Franklin County Common Pleas Judge John Bessey ruled last month to suppress the statements that Antonio M. Martinez-Nunez made during phone interviews with Reynoldsburg police, The Columbus Dispatch reports. Martinez-Nunez, 31, had been charged with nine counts, including aggravated murder and abuse of a corpse in the death of Armondo Casillas Castanedo, whose body was found in a parked car in the Columbus suburb of Reynoldsburg in August 2009. Police think Castanedo, a 36-year-old illegal immigrant, was killed a few days earlier in a feud over drug territory. An autopsy determined that he was asphyxiated. Supreme Court orders California to release prisoners By Michael Doyle [email protected] Published: Monday, May. 23, 2011 - 7:47 am WASHINGTON - A closely divided Supreme Court on Monday cited "serious constitutional violations" in California's overcrowded prisons and ordered the state to abide by aggressive plans to fix the problem. In a decision closely watched by other states, the court by a 5-4 margin concluded the prison overcrowding violated constitutional protections against cruel and unusual punishment. Pointedly, the court rejected California's bid for more time and leeway. APNewsBreak: High-risk Calif parolees unsupervised By DON THOMPSON Associated Press SACRAMENTO, Calif. California improperly paroled more than 450 dangerous criminals without supervision last year as part of a program designed to reduce prison crowding and cost, the California prison system's independent inspector general said Wednesday in a report. A faulty computerized risk-assessment program predicted the offenders could be released under the state's non-revocable parole law that took effect in January 2010. The inspector general found that about 1,500 offenders were improperly left unsupervised, including 450 who "carry a high risk for violence." The offenders otherwise would have been released under traditional parole, which requires them to report in regularly and follow specific rules. Cop Fired For Responding to Officer Down Call The Houston Chronicle via YellowBrix June 08, 2011 HOUSTON, TX – Law enforcement leaders are stepping up criticism of Rice University’s firing of a police officer who responded to an armed standoff off-campus last month with a man who shot two HPD officers before turning the gun on himself. Rice University terminated the officer, David Sedmak, for dereliction of duty for leaving his post to get to the call near the downtown Greyhound station. Sedmak responded to the scene when he heard the call on his police scanner. Cops: Conn. man punched self to fake assault The Associated Press Posted: 06/06/2011 02:00:35 PM PDT Updated: 06/06/2011 02:25:27 PM PDT FARMINGTON, Conn.—Connecticut police say a man punched himself in the face, tore his shirt and threw his wallet and keys in a river to convince police he had been assaulted. Farmington police said Monday that Daniel Vagnini was arrested after reporting that he has been assaulted, then admitting he made up the story. According to police, the 22-year-old Farmington man sped through a stop sign and nearly crashed into a car. Police say they later found his car and heard Vagnini in the woods. He told police he had been drinking in Hartford and was assaulted and blacked out. Vagnini was charged with reckless driving, evading responsibility and driving under the influence. A woman who returned a message left at Vagnini's home said the family would have no comment. In closing: Website www.coptalk.info Stitcher.com Subscribe and give us a review on itunes Ask a cop section? Please ask your questions… Email Subscription – Sign Up on the site Thanks for your support over the past 10 years and thanks for continuing to follow our site STAY SAFE! Please send in your questions: http://www.coptalk.info/ask-a-cop-ask-us-a-question/

Ask a Cop? Worst Part about being a Cop?: Thanks Matt I listen to your show regularly and really enjoy the wealth of knowledge that your team offers. Keep up the good work! I've worked my way through almost all of your episodes, and haven't heard this question come up yet: For each of you, what are your most and least favorite things about being an LEO? Also, I know you guys are exposed to a wide variety of threats as LEO's; what are some things you guys do to stay sharp on the job? Do you have mental/physical daily routines, or weekly ones? How do you guys stay up on new case law, which could affect how you perform your duties? Do your departments offer opportunities for continuing education or is that something that you pursue on your own? 13 Things a Burglar won't tell you...... URL : http://www.coptalk.info/2010/02/21/13-things-your-burglar-wont-tell-you/ 1.  Of course I look familiar. I was here just last week cleaning your carpets, painting your shutters, or delivering your new refrigerator. 2. Hey, thanks for letting me use the bathroom when I was working in your yard last week. While I was in there, I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier. 3. Love those flowers. That tells me you have taste … and taste means there are nice things inside. Those yard toys your kids leave out always make me wonder what type of gaming system they have. 4. Yes, I really do look for newspapers piled up on the driveway. And I might leave a pizza flyer in your front door to see how long it takes you to remove it. 5. If it snows while you’re out of town, get a neighbor to create car and foot tracks into the house. Virgin drifts in the driveway are a dead giveaway. 6. If decorative glass is part of your front entrance, don’t let your alarm company install the control pad where I can see if it’s set. That makes it too easy. 7. A good security company alarms the window over the sink. And the windows on the second floor, which often access the master bedroom-and your jewelry. It’s not a bad idea to put motion detectors up there too. 8. It’s raining, you’re fumbling with your umbrella, and you forget to lock your door-understandable. But understand this: I don’t take a day off because of bad weather. 9.. I always knock first. If you answer, I’ll ask for directions somewhere or offer to clean your gutters. (Don’t take me up on it.) 10. Do you really think I won’t look in your sock drawer? I always check dresser drawers, the bedside table, and the medicine cabinet. 11. Helpful hint: I almost never go into kids’ rooms. 12. You’re right: I won’t have enough time to break into that safe where you keep your valuables. But if it’s not bolted down, I’ll take it with me. 13. A loud TV or radio can be a better deterrent than the best alarm system. If you’re reluctant to leave your TV on while you’re out of town, you can buy a $35 device that works on a timer and simulates the flickering glow of a real television. (Find it at faketv.com.) 8 MORE THINGS A BURGLAR WON’T TELL YOU: 1. Sometimes, I carry a clipboard. Sometimes, I dress like a lawn guy and carry a rake. I do my best to never, ever look like a crook. 2. The two things I hate most: loud dogs and nosy neighbors. 3. I’ll break a window to get in, even if it makes a little noise. If your neighbor hears one loud sound, he’ll stop what he’s doing and wait to hear it again. If he doesn’t hear it again, he’ll just go back to what he was doing. It’s human nature. 4. I’m not complaining, but why would you pay all that money for a fancy alarm system and leave your house without setting it? 5. I love looking in your windows. I’m looking for signs that you’re home, and for flat screen TVs or gaming systems I’d like. I’ll drive or walk through your neighborhood at night, before you close the blinds, just to pick my targets. 6. Avoid announcing your vacation on your Facebook page. It’s easier than you think to look up your address. 7. To you, leaving that window open just a crack during the day is a way to let in a little fresh air. To me, it’s an invitation. 8. If you don’t answer when I knock, I try the door. Occasionally, I hit the jackpot and walk right in. Sources: Convicted burglars in North Carolina , Oregon , California , and Kentucky; security consultant Chris McGoey, who runs crimedoctor.com; and Richard T. Wright, a criminology professor at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, who interviewed 105 burglars for his book Burglars on the Job. NEWS: STUPID CRIMINALS LINK: CLICK HERE Police: Man steals lawnmower from Conn. school The Associated Press Posted: 04/28/2011 09:13:42 PM PDT Updated: 04/28/2011 09:14:39 PM PDT EAST LYME, Conn.—Authorities say a man who was drunk and looking for a place to sleep broke into a trailer behind a Connecticut high school, then instead stole keys to a lawnmower and went for a joyride during which he mowed his parents' lawn. Police in East Lyme say 22-year-old Nikolaus Trombley was caught on tape early Wednesday stealing the lawnmower from East Lyme High School. Police say Trombley told them he was looking for the keys to the school when he found the keys to the lawnmower. He rode it three miles to his parents' house, mowed the lawn and started to head back to the school but abandoned the mower on the way. He's charged with third-degree larceny and burglary. Ohio DUI suspect keeps cop waiting at drive-thru The Associated Press Posted: 04/28/2011 06:19:55 AM PDT NORTH ROYALTON, Ohio—Police in Ohio say a woman insisted on picking up some fast food before she allowed an officer to charge her with drunken driving. The Plain Dealer newspaper of Cleveland reports police in suburban North Royalton got a call about a car weaving and going off a road at a little after 1 a.m. earlier this month. A patrolman tracked the vehicle to the drive-thru of a Taco Bell restaurant and pulled up alongside. The police report says the driver had sunglasses on and her speech was slurred. She was ordered to get out of the line, but first she proceeded to the second window to grab her order. Police say the woman's blood-alcohol level tested at nearly twice the legal limit. **************************************** NJ town limits when roosters, hens can hook up The Associated Press Posted: 04/27/2011 06:46:02 AM PDT HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP, N.J.—A New Jersey town has adopted an ordinance that regulates when chickens and roosters can hook up in backyard henhouses. Roosters must show they're disease-free and they better not crow about their conquests. Hopewell Township residents can have up to a half-dozen hens on half-acre lots. Roosters would be allowed only 10 days a year for fertilization purposes. Mature roosters are not allowed because they're too noisy. Any roosters that crow too long can be banned from the property for two years. Mayor Jim Burd told The Times of Trenton the ordinance is a compromise between today's lifestyle and the township's agricultural history. *********************** Misaddressed marijuana goes to elderly Pa. couple Associated Press Posted: 04/25/2011 07:55:59 AM PDT UPPER DARBY, Pa.—Police say an elderly Pennsylvania couple was the unintended recipient of a very seedy delivery: a five-pound brick of marijuana. Police in Upper Darby, just outside Philadelphia, say the couple paid little attention to the package when it was delivered last week. Not recognizing the name, they left it on their porch, expecting it to be picked up. When nobody claimed the package, the couple opened it to find what police say was $10,000 in high-grade marijuana. Police Superintendent Michael Chitwood tells the Delaware County Daily Times the couple gave the package to police, who determined the return address in Tollison, Ariz., was fake. Chitwood says the department sees about a half-dozen similar deliveries a year and can sometimes track down the sender. *********************************** Man dressed as clown going to prison for blackmail The Associated Press Posted: 04/25/2011 03:15:58 AM PDT SAN FRANCISCO—Despite the clown outfit, the threat was no joke. A Redwood City man who police say wore a clown suit to pick up extortion money from his immigrant relatives has been sentenced to three years in prison. A U.S. District Judge sentenced 46-year-old Frank Salvador Solorza in Oakland last week. Solorza was arrested in 2009 after he showed up at a San Mateo County home on a child's bike and wearing a clown suit, wig, and pirate hat. Authorities say Solorza picked up a case he believed contained the $50,000 he demanded from his cousins, who emigrated from Mexico. Officials say Solorza's scheme included threatening to have them deported for lying on immigration papers if they didn't pay up. He apparently wore the disguise to protect his identity from them. The San Francisco Chronicle reports a federal jury convicted Solorza of conspiracy, impersonating an immigration officer and attempted extortion. ************************************* UPDATE *** Ohio man challenging law on teasing police dogs The Associated Press Posted: 04/22/2011 09:09:15 AM PDT MASON, Ohio—A southwest Ohio man charged with teasing a police dog by barking at it says a city law violates free speech. The Cincinnati Enquirer reports the attorney for 25-year-old Ryan James Stephens says his client was not striking the animal in suburban Mason. Lawyer Jim Hardin says barking may not be seen as intelligent speech but is "still speech." He questions the validity of a city law that bars taunting police dogs. A police officer investigating a car crash at a pub on April 3 reported he heard the dog barking uncontrollably. The officer said he found Stephens making barking noises and