HH ON TRAFFIC STOPS
HH hates, or rather dislikes, writing traffic citations. However, he uses his observation skills to note when violations are committed and stop those who may be in violation to discuss the seriousness of the offense.
OHPD and most cities do not emphasize the number of citations an officer may issue. It is a myth that considerable revenue from citations encourages the writing of tickets. Most states have removed such entitlement from municipalities, making the emphasis unnecessary, at best.
What is important is to analyze the primary cause of traffic accidents, particularly those that cause serious injury, and enforce the laws to ensure compliance and save lives. The seriousness of the violation and the violator’s attitude and demeanor play an essential role in putting ink to paper.
He does not stop someone for driving while black, Hispanic, young, or old. He stops them for their aberrant behavior while driving. Is the car registered with updated tags? Do the brake lights work? Was there a traffic violation that put others in danger?
Today’s vehicles make it almost impossible to see the occupants. Window tinting on the sides and rear, headrests that block a view of the driver or passenger, seats that lower the occupants’ position all make for difficulty in knowing who is inside. Thus, he will sit in his car after pulling someone over, not to make the person more nervous, but obtain the vehicle registration information and determine ownership. It may take a moment or two before he makes his approach. He will also look for furtive movements of the occupants and try to determine the number of people in the car, if possible. Ideally, he would like to see the driver’s hands at all times.
