Devallis RutledgeFrom Devallis RutledgePatrolOverlooked Legal NuggetsFrom time to time, we get a really helpful decision that can make our jobs easier, and yet few people seem to learn about it or realize its significance. Here are 10 such decisions from the U.S. Supreme Court.May 4, 2016PatrolArrest WarrantsMany arrests are made without a warrant, of course. However, where the circumstances permit, "Law enforcement officers may find it wise to seek arrest warrants where practicable to do so." (U.S. v. Watson)April 6, 2016PatrolServing the Search WarrantHaving a warrant does not guarantee that your actions will always be upheld. Every officer participating in the execution of a search warrant should be familiar with the following guidelines.March 2, 2016PatrolConsensual EncountersThe well-trained, self-disciplined, smart law enforcement officer first tries a consensual encounter, before resorting to a detention that may or may not win judicial approval.February 5, 2016PatrolUnder the Microscope After an OISIf, God forbid, you have to shoot someone on the job, here are some possible consequences you may find yourself enduring for the next several years, even though you may have been completely justified in your use of deadly force.January 7, 2016TrainingSelf-Inflicted WoundsThere are times when "tactical language" may be the only thing some suspects respond to. But that doesn't mean profanity should be your default method of communicating with everyone with whom you come in contact.December 3, 2015PatrolReasonable ForceIn the age of ubiquitous video and mushrooming oversight, how can you ensure that your use of force does not bring unwanted discredit upon you, your department, and the entire profession? The same as always: Know the law, and comply with it.November 3, 2015PatrolFlight and the Fourth AmendmentSometimes, people run when they see you coming. May you chase them? If you do, does that amount to a "show of authority" constituting a detention, requiring reasonable suspicion?October 7, 2015PatrolReasonable SuspicionIn some cases, the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that particular searches and seizures need only "reasonable suspicion" to be constitutional—not the higher justification level of probable cause. What's the difference, and when is reasonable suspicion sufficient?September 2, 2015PatrolHotel/Motel Registry ChecksA supreme court decision might have the adverse effect of making it easier for motels conspiring with criminals to thwart police investigations.August 21, 2015Page 1 of 17Next Page
