June 2021: How to Interact with a Law Enforcement Officer

Welcome Summer and Congratulations to the Class of 2021!

Whether you are going to a University, State College, Trade School, or entering the workforce, be proud of what you have accomplished. Life is filled with lessons that have brought you to where you are today. Work hard to reach your goals and work towards making yourself a better person every day. Understand some people make it look easier than others.  No one person’s journey is the same. Let your journey take you to your goals.

How to interact with a Law Enforcement Officer

Law enforcement is such a hot topic right now. It seems like it might be hard for people to trust and feel comfortable interacting with police officers. Whether it is a traffic stop or a call for service, knowing how to interact is essential.  

In all encounters, it is important to be respectful as respect goes both ways. If you want to be heard, listen to what the officer is asking or telling you to do. There are times we need to gain control over the situation to determine what is going on. Once this is done, all parties involved can be heard.

Unfortunately, not every experience with a police officer is viewed by others as a positive interaction. Sometimes, based on a situation, officers need to take immediate control. You may not feel the way the officer spoke to you or handled it was correct. Don’t let experiences define all officers. If you have a complaint against an officer, you are welcome to complete a complaint form with the department.

We want to continue building the trust and respect of our community.

Traffic Stop

It can be scary being pulled over for the first time or the first time in a while. Here are a few tips to help you through the traffic stop:

• Keep your hands on the steering wheel.
• Be respectful.
• Don’t make sudden moves.
• Let the officer know you are reaching for what they requested.
• Do not argue on the side of the road; if you feel the citation is not justified, then you have an option to have your case heard in court. 

Call for Service

When we get called out to an address, we need to investigate whether a crime was committed. We will ask you to identify yourself. We will ask you a series of questions to assist in determining if a crime was committed or not.  

If a crime has been committed, we will have you complete a sworn statement and any other required paperwork. You will decide to press charges or not. There are some crimes the State will take the burden of being the victim. If no crime was committed, you could still request a report be made and complete a sworn statement. If no crime has occurred and no report is asked for or needed, we will leave.

Community Youth Outreach is Back!

Community Youth Outreach (CYO) is a program hosted by the Winter Springs Police Department to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the youth in the community. It gives the youth an opportunity to see police officers in a fun and friendly environment. 

What do you do at CYO?  There will be instructional sports, schoolyard games, visits to the splash pad, and board games. The program gives kids an opportunity to make new friends, learn to play a sport, and spend time with police officers. 

How much does it cost and do you have to register?  The cost is free and your parent or guardian can register you the day you come out. Lunch is provided each day at no cost.

For more information, Click Here.