With the holidays here, remember that shoppers and partygoers aren’t the only ones keeping busy — drug runners are likely keeping a hectic pace as well. Predicting that patrol numbers may be lower and the odds of getting a friendly pass on a traffic stop may be higher this time of year, contraband couriers have been known to capitalize on the season as a perfect time to move loads.
Remember to maintain a high level of vigilance, curiosity and awareness during every stop, regardless of when you make it and what you see. A car with kids and wrapped presents in the back may look harmless, and very well could be, but appearances can be deceiving as officers who have pulled drug hauls out of piles of “presents” stacked in a trunk will attest.
Take the time, even during the holidays — actually, PARTICULARLY during the holidays — to ask questions:
1.) Where are you going?
2.) Who are you visiting?
3.) How long will you be there?
4.) Where are you coming from?
5.) How long is it going to take to get to your destination?
Listen to the answers. Then repeat some key questions and look for inconsistencies. Don’t be tempted to rush through a stop just because “Dad” is acting uptight and voicing concerned that they’re going to be late for the holiday party or the “family” seems floored that an officer would have the gall to stop them during the holidays. Don’t immediately assume that a wrapped box with a bow on it is totally off limits.
If you think there’s something hinky about the situation, have the professional courage and commitment to advance a traffic stop to a vehicle search — even on Christmas!
