WHAT YOU SHOULD DO IF STOPPED BY THE POLICE

Your Responsibilities:

Slow down. Pull over as soon as you can safely do so. If the vehicle is unmarked and you doubt that it is a police vehicle, drive below the speed limit to a well-lit, populated place and pull over, or go to the nearest police station, or attract the attention of a uniformed officer.

Unwind window if the car is tinted and stay in the driver's seat with both hands clearly in sight on the steering wheel. Do not exit the vehicle unless asked to do so.

Comply with the officer's request to see your driver's licence, registration and proof of insurance. If they are in the glove compartment or under the seat, let the officer know and then follow his or her directions before retrieving them.

Comply with all instructions given by the police officer even if you think they are wrong. Seek redress later.

Your Rights:

You should be treated with dignity and respect. Under no circumstance can the police ask you to pay a fine for a traffic violation at the time it occurs or negotiate any other terms.

Asking for such a payment, as well as making one, is illegal.

You have the right to have any inappropriate situation addressed.

If you believe that an officer has acted inappropriately during a traffic stop, or any other encounter, you should report that officer's conduct as soon as possible to the Office of the Inspectorate of Constabulary, first Floor, 12 Ocean Boulevard, Kingston Mall. Tel: 876-922-9234, 876-967-4600; Fax: 876-922-0288.

Try to have as much information as possible about the officer, including his or her name, badge number, the division to which the vehicle is assigned and the number on the sides of his or her service vehicle. The exact date, time and location of the occurrence are also very important.

WHAT THE POLICE EXPECT FROM YOU

We need you to:

Respect and abide by the laws.

Come forward if you witnessed or know of a crime committed against anyone.

Report suspicious circumstances to us.

Refrain from corrupting your police by offering bribes.

Promptly report acts of corruption and unprofessional behaviour.

Refrain from harbouring persons involved in illegal and criminal acts.

Stay away from crime scenes and obey the police; do not cross crime-scene tapes or pick up spent shells or other exhibits.

Be civil in your interactions with us.

Perform civic duties such as jury service.

Partner with us to build and sustain safer communities.

Be honest and reasonable when dealing with us.