In response to recent events, some states have had their law enforcement officers partner up when pulling people over. Although Texas has not implemented pair ups, Lubbock law enforcement does have a few tips for citizens to follow when getting pulled over.
Assistant chief of Lubbock police, Jon Caspell, says that since Texas is an open carry state, it’s important for citizens to have their hands visible when getting pulled over.
“If folks really do want to make traffic stops as safe as possible for the citizens, as well as the officer, if they’re carrying something legally, that’s okay, ” said Caspell. “There’s nothing wrong with disclosing that in the beginnings of the traffic stop to tell an officer, with your hands on the steering wheel, ‘Just so you know, I am carrying, a (this sort of a weapon.)”
As frustrating as a ticket can be, Caspell says it’s important to not let your anger escalate, but instead make a formal complaint after the encounter.
“If they feel like they don’t deserve that ticket, if the officer has been rude to them, or done something that they feel was out of place, there is absolutely a venue for that,” said Caspell. “We have an office of professional standards, and a branch that is our internal affairs, we take all complaints.”
Corporal John Gonzalez has been with Lubbock’s- Texas Department of Public safety for 30 years, and says its important to realize that getting a ticket is not a personal matter, it’s because a violation took place.
“It is our job to be out on the highways, and to look for those violations, I’d rather give you a warning or a ticket then have to go tell your loved one that you’re not coming home because you were speeding and lost control, ” said Gonzalez. “Whereas if I gave you the warning or a citation, I’d rather you pay that small fine then pay with your life, because that’s not replaceable.”
