Pulled over en femme!

[Tiffanyselkoe]

Last week while driving home, I inadvertently ran a stop sign. A state trooper happened to pull me over. On this occasion I was fully dressed with a fashionable long skirt, linen blouse, wedges, wig, makeup, the whole nine yards. When I gave the trooper my license and insurance, he looked at it, then at me and said "this is a male's license". I have always heard honesty is the best policy when dealing with law enforcement so I told him the truth, I'm a crossdresser. I wasn't really nervous at the time. It then began to get weird. The trooper stated he thought he smelled marijuana in the car and asked if I had been drinking. I told him I do not smoke at all nor had I had anything to drink at all that day. He asked me to come back to his vehicle while he looked up my license, which I did. There were further questions including, did I have anything in the car I shouldn't have, where had I been, where was I going to, where I worked, if I had any drugs or alcohol in the car. I did tell him I am an RN and don't drive after drinking or use marijuana as I would risk losing my license. During the whole proceeding I felt I was being singled out for the way I was dressed. When he could not find any further reason to detain me, the trooper gave me a citation and I was on my way. It was probably one of the strangest experiences I have had in quite a while.

[jamielynn_ca]

I'd take that as one heck of a compliment that he took you for a woman! Oh, that other stuff sucks, but I'm sure they see the worst of our world daily, so the questions seem pretty normal. Honesty and respect with the law usually turns out for the best other than the ticket.

[Rogina B]

I think you did well and remember that "it isn't a big deal unless you make it one"..I have been pulled over a bunch of times and my DL has Rogina's pic on it...

[Paula_Femme]

What did his name tag say, "Trooper McCreepy?" :heehee:

[Michelle55]

I was stopped a few years ago with a tail light out when out enfemme. He did come back to my car after running my license and did about 3 double takes looking at my license and back to me. He was professional through the entire process and gave me a warning ticket to have the tail light fixed.
It seems to me the guy that pulled you over was looking for some reason to give you a hard time.

[AccidentalDresser]

So you got pulled over by a state trooper who obviously found you attractive and needed a hit and possibly a drink. Was planning on searching your car for some spare panties and asked you everything he legally could but whimped out on asking for your number.

His loss really lol

Xxxx

[kimdl93]

That would have been unnerving, particularly when he began with the questions and the license check. Glad you came out of it unscathed other than the citation.

[Krisi]

Perhaps this is the first crossdresser this trouper ever pulled over. Did you have to stand outside while he checked you license or did he let you sit in his car?

You can't blame the police for being extra careful these days with some folks advocating shooting them. And actually doing it.

[melaknee]

that would be scary!

[Kate Simmons]

One reason why, whenever I go out dressed, I carry a fresh box of donuts with me in the car. :battingeyelashes::)

[Dana3]

All that was required of you was to show your driver's license, proof of insurance, and registration. When he mentioned that the photo on the license didn't match up with your present appearance, you weren't really obligated to offer up any kind of explanation, nor were you obligated legally to answer his questions about drinking or smoking marijuana. You were not obligated to go back to his cruiser. You are not obligated to leave your car, unless you are being detained, which was your right to inquire about. If not your not legally bound to answer any of his questions, (self incrimination) nor to leave your vehicle. He had no right to search your car without your consent (And knew it) . They can answer any and all the questions they want, but your not obligated to answer them. Why you were dressed the way you were, where you had been, and where you were going isn't any of his business nor concern, UNLESS your the suspect of a crime. The odd of a particular man dressed as a woman in the clothes, wig, makeup, ear rings, jewelry driving the particular car that your were driving, having committed a crime or having been reported as such ~ are astronomical. He was WAY out of line and should be reported to his superiors. Just because your a cross dresser doesn't mean you surrender your constitutional rights, nor does it void your rights as a law abiding citizen.

Just saying.

[Krisi]

It's possible that you may not be "obligated" to do this or do that, but as a practical matter, cooperating with the officer will make things far easier on you and get you on your way faster.

Free legal advice found on the Internet is worth exactly what you pay for it.

[Tammy Lynn Tx]

What Krisi said is true, be forthright and not evasive or combative. You do not have to give permission to search, but don't be a jerk about it. If an officer feels you are being evasive in your answers is when your troubles start.
Glad it worked out as well as it did for you. A friend of mine said they didn't have quotas per say but were told to look for certain things and if it has been a slow night.... he is bored and looking for something to do

[cdncdwife]

I've often wondered what would happen if we got pulled over while my husband was dressed. I agree with the other replies that it was probably just that particular trooper. Most I think wouldn't care much, they've met far stranger people than CD in their line of work. Glad it worked out ok (even if it was a bit weird) and sorry you got a ticket.

[michelleddg]

A few years ago I made a left turn through the yellow and saw "no left turn 4pm to 6pm" as I went through. Sure enough, there was a cop waiting for me in the parking lot on the right. First and only time I've been pulled over in my life, and I'm dolled up at the time. My worst nightmare achieved, I am beyond mortified.

I got out my insurance certificate and drivers license, turned on the dome light, and put my hands with my pretty French manicure on the steering wheel. Whether I was just lucky or benefitted from knowing the protocol, the follow up was a non-issue. Except, of course, that he asked me if I was wearing contacts because I needed corrected vision per my license. Sadly, no, so he added that to the citation. I paid the fine but it's not on my record as I subsequently did penance at defensive driving school.

Hugs, Michelle

[Heather_Shirly]

1) yes good job begin the cute passible women you are!
2) yes you were being singled out because you are a crossdresser. It must have been really annoying to him that you were not breaking any laws running a stop sign.

One of my oldest friends is a local city police and my brother in law is a sherif at the other end of the state in a rural area. Guess what they are both told to ask someone at any routine traffic stop. Yup I smell maraujuina and are you drinking. You did good being honest though. I can only imagine the wired charges a trooper could come up with if you didn't say you were a crossdresser. Last time i got pulled over i didn't waste any time and just said give me a breathalyzer and feel free to search my car. The trooper laughed and left AFTER i passed the breathalyzer.

[SherriePall]

I have relatives who used to be in law enforcement and they told stories of being bored in the early morning hours (small town) and just stopping someone to break up the night. Your trooper may have been thrown off by your being dressed, especially looking as fine as you do. At least you kept your calm and made it through with only the citation.
Oh, Kate, do Jersey and New York troopers appreciate the treats, too?

[UNDERDRESSER]

Maybe this had something to do with it?
http://www.keepcolumbiafree.com/blog/a-guide-to-keeping-the-columbia-missouri-police-dept-from-policing-for-profit/
Note, the DOJ has recently said they can't do this unless you are charged with a crime, I think, it may need you to be convicted? Glad nothing worse happened to you anyway.

[Stephanie Julianna]

I'm a little surprised by this story since, pulling the RN card usually creates some camaraderie with the police. Maybe you would have had a better experience with a female officer.

[AngelaYVR]

I had a very pleasant and amusing experience with a female officer while out on the vespa. It is unfortunate that there are a number of jerks who end up wearing a police uniform but I do believe they are the minority.

[MissTee]

My sister is a deputy sheriff, and she has shared stories of men in women's clothes being stopped and eventually booked due to alcohol or drug use suspicion. She also thinks they are all gay, and therefore not a threat to her. She is very conservative and does not think highly of crossdressers at all. If only she knew . . .

[MelanieAnne]

The trooper stated he thought he smelled marijuana in the car and asked if I had been drinking.

They do that so they can search your car!


I told him I do not smoke at all nor had I had anything to drink at all that day.
That should have been sufficient!


He asked me to come back to his vehicle while he looked up my license, which I did.
He did that just to get a better look at you and maybe humiliate you!


There were further questions including, did I have anything in the car I shouldn't have, where had I been, where was I going to, where I worked, if I had any drugs or alcohol in the car.

None of his business! You should have asked him what you shouldn't have in your car, a full list please, so you could look it over!

[Kate T]

Very awkward Tiffany. And not nice.

Easy to say in hindsight but if you got his name or identification number or even the plates on the car he was driving then frankly I would be tempted to make a formal complaint with the relevant authorities as it does sound like borderline harassment.

[Caden Lane]

It sounds like he was fishing to see how you would answer; often when asked those questions, people answer in ways that are very telling, and reveal the truth without even realizing it. Which would lead to other questions. It sounds like he was attempting a "soft" interdiction stop to me. But you did good stying calm and playing it cool while being helpful. If you had clammed up, he would more than likely have asked to search your car. Had you refused, he would have detained you longer while waiting for a dog, and that would be yet another officer you would have been subjected to. You may wish to check your state laws, but some states allow officers to make notations to a drivers record via their in car computer terminals. Here in Georgia they do not, all entries into GCIC have to be official entries. But other states allow officers to make notations or they have their own county databases where they can enter in a drivers demeanor, if they were helpful, antagonistic, threatening, suspicious, or whatever. So that officer may have notated how you were dressed. He may also have prepared a police citizen contact card in order to create profile on you in case they stop you another time or elsewhere. Not trying to scare you, but it is always a wise thing to be prepared.

Ever & Always,
Caden Lane

[DorothyElizabeth]

Those who are quick to say you have certain rights, or that you should file a complaint should stop to consider - there are many ways that may or may not be strictly legal, that police can make your life miserable. In my experience, it is best to move very slowly when dealing with stinging insects.

I have been stopped several times, very late at night in Baltimore City, essentially for "driving while white". (That's what happens, if you are in "the wrong part of town". As a musician, I have often been where the dope deals and prostitution take place after about midnight, or so.)Whenever stopped by police, I am always prepared to get out of the car if requested. I have in the front of my mind, "take the key out of the ignition, and lock the door" If asked why you did that, state that it's just out of habit. If they ask if they may search the car, I ask that they provide a warrant. Other than that, I am completely cooperative and honest, but I do not volunteer information. Being a licensed professional engineer, I do not use illegal substances, and when playing music I never drink on the job.

[Vickie_CDTV]

You did the right thing. Fighting with him would have only made it worse. Going through a stop sign, he can claim a reason to ask if you have been drinking or under the influence. Right or wrong, in a court nothing he did could be seen as some sort of wrongdoing. Even if he was just being a jerk, he has his bases covered in this case. Since you ran a stop sign, he can claim it might have been because you were impaired by something, even if you were not.

I remember years ago I was pulled over (en drab) because I passed a cop with my high beams on. The first thing he asked was "Have you been drinking?" He said he though the reason I blinded him with my high beams was because I was impaired (I wasn't, I was tired and just forgot to do it in time.) Sure, I could have complained about being asked if I had been drinking, but it would have fallen on deaf ears anyway.

[Kate T]

Wow, seriously, I didn't realise you guys had all sorts of stuff like that going on over there. Put's another view on "land of the free".

[TxCassie]

Being pulled over is always a stressful situation. It sounds like you handled the situation perfectly Tiffany. The questions the Trooper asked you are normal questions asked on any given traffic stop. How you answer is probably just, if not more important than what you said as an answer. You failed to mention the time of day or night, was the traffic light or heavy, was the area of your stop is an urban or rural area. All these are factors that may prompted the questions. The fact you were dressed 'en femme' may or may not had anything to do with his actions. I would imagine any PD in and around Columbia Mo have training on cultural diversity via their required training. The only two parts of your experience that caught my attention was when the Trooper stated he "thought" he smelled marijuana in the car. Your answer was effective because it was true. Any LE professional worth his salt would have recognized you were telling the truth. It seems he was and did recognize the truth. Being asked if you've been drinking is quite common. The other part was when he asked you to get out of your car and follow him to his car. Being asked out of the car is usually done when the officer is 1) in a dangerous position by standing on the edge of the road, or 2) indeed is planning on further investigation, i.e. a pat down, a search of the car, with consent, or thinking there is a possible arrest coming. Usually, the person is asked to stand behind their car in between the two vehicles. The license check probably came back clean and not really having any other markers, and if he valued his career, he had no choice but to write the citation and let you go.

We must remember, we entrust Law Enforcement to do those very things you experienced Tiffany so that they can capture the bad guys violating our laws, breaking the peace. For many, it's expected until they are the one under the red and blue lights, then they shout 'rights', "rights', and "rights'. How many times a person with an outstanding warrant is caught just because they ran a red light or, had a missing headlight. In turn, how many officers have lost their lives because they stop someone for speeding, running a red, missing headlight. The scariest and most dangerous thing anyone can do is walk up to a tinted window car, on a darken street or highway, alone, not knowing who or what will happen once that window is put down, if in fact, the window drops before they fire that gun. While the Trooper in your experience may have not been the most congenial, he did his job, did it thoroughly, and professionally, and hopefully, he will continue to do so.

Good Job, Dear.

Cassie :love:

[lingerieLiz]

I don't know where or what time the stop was, but the officer didn't do anything wrong. He can ask any reasonable question he wants to. You don't have to answer them. The marijuana statement and question is pretty standard. If he thought you had been drinking, asking you to walk back to his car gave him a chance to observe your movements. He could have asked you to stand in front of his car for all to see. He may have given you extra scrutiny based on where or when he stopped you. Remember he thought you were a woman when he stopped you. That means you are more passable than most CDs. He may have been intrigued or just didn't feel like walking back and forth from the squad car to your car while he verified your info. He must have felt safe with you because he let you into his car.

As for refusing a vehicle search it will get you a K9 search almost every time. If the dog alerts you will be detained most of the time. With so many people smoking pot today most all money has trace amounts of pot on it and a dog can alert on it and get you a search and ride.

[Ellen2d]

I've never been pulled over while en Femme, however, I was pulled over a couple of weeks ago and it was the first time since I got my Carry permit and I was carrying. Very nervous when I handed over my DL and carry permit but he was cool about it, just asked if I was carrying and then where.

[Krisi]

From the trouper's point of view, there could be another reason you were dressed as a woman - disguising yourself to avoid detection or capture. A man dressed as a woman might be a wanted criminal on the run. He had to check on that possibility.

On crossdressing forums we are among like minded people but we have to remember that what we do is uncommon to those on the "outside".

[Mollyanne]

Hi Tiffany, after reading your story I'm trying to determine what kind of citation he wrote. As a retired police officer from a major law enforcement agency I can honestly say that this officer went just a little to far. I am guessing that he gave you the citation for passing the stop sign. If you are considering filing a complaint I would think twice about it. Word gets around in "off the record" circles and you end up in a "meat grinder".

Molly

[Mollyanne]

Those who are quick to say you have certain rights, or that you should file a complaint should stop to consider - there are many ways that may or may not be strictly legal, that police can make your life miserable. In my experience, it is best to move very slowly when dealing with stinging insects.

I have been stopped several times, very late at night in Baltimore City, essentially for "driving while white". (That's what happens, if you are in "the wrong part of town". As a musician, I have often been where the dope deals and prostitution take place after about midnight, or so.)Whenever stopped by police, I am always prepared to get out of the car if requested. I have in the front of my mind, "take the key out of the ignition, and lock the door" If asked why you did that, state that it's just out of habit. If they ask if they may search the car, I ask that they provide a warrant. Other than that, I am completely cooperative and honest, but I do not volunteer information. Being a licensed professional engineer, I do not use illegal substances, and when playing music I never drink on the job.

I would be VERY careful about requesting to see a warrant for a car search. "IF U HAVE NOTHING TO HIDE THEN U HIDE NOTHING"

Molly

[Melissa_59]

Thinks he smelled marijuana? Yeah. "Someone" is looking for a reason to search your car, and you should never allow that without a warrant. Never consent to a search without a warrant, no matter what they threaten you with. It's funny how things suddenly appear that you didn't have in your possession. It DOES happen, and if you live in one of those states where people do life in prison for one tiny leaf of marijuana, well...

~Melissa

[Melissa_59]

One reason why, whenever I go out dressed, I carry a fresh box of donuts with me in the car. :battingeyelashes::)

You'll get pulled over a LOT with that sort of "bait" :D

Ask Gabriel Iglesias!

~Melissa

[Allisa]

Hi Tiffany so much advice on what can and cannot be done by Troopers, I having long hair all my life have been pulled over on numerous occasions and the questions asked are all legal and searches are legal all under the umbrella of "probable cause", I always co-operate and show respect, if you are doing nothing wrong and have nothing to hide than time is all you lost. I know in NJ all police forces have to take awareness classes on gender issues and the like.

[Caden Lane]

Even as a retired cop, I do not abide by the "If you have nothing to hide, then you hide nothing," argument. It's my car, my expectation of privacy; I know I do nothing which would give an officer cause for suspicion, I certainly try not to give them any reason to have probable cause. If neither of those things exist, he is merely asking because he wants to. If I refuse, which is my right, then the burden is on him. He can call a dog if he likes. I won't be making any snide remarks to agitate the situation. I will simply bide my time. And when they find nothing, then I'll be on my way. If they do anything egregious enough to warrant a complaint, then I'll file one. It's not your duty to hand over your rights because a police officer asks nicely. If he wants to make a case, he's gonna have to work his ass off or prove he's dirty to do it. Because I won't be making it easy on him.

[Danitgirl1]

Wow, we live in a comparative police state.
Cops can, and do, pull you over and search for no reason. Random roadblocks are set up for this reason.
We are advised to go along with all police and comply to avoid brutality. Good lawyers will get you off.
For example, being in possession of certain drugs may be illegal, but taking the drugs (ie being in possession of the metabolite) is not illegal, provided you don't operate a vehicle. Yet the cops raid nightclubs and haul people off to be blood and urine tested. It proves nothing, but resisting just gets you a beating so we are advised to go with and call a lawyer when we get a chance. Sadly a lot of South Africans have no access to a lawyer, so our jails are full of petty criminals, some of whom have actually not committed a crime, whilst Oscar Pistorius and Shrien Dewani manipulate the system and either get off or are treated leniently...

[rhondacdma]

Last week while driving home, I inadvertently ran a stop sign. A state trooper happened to pull me over. On this occasion I was fully dressed with a fashionable long skirt, linen blouse, wedges, wig, makeup, the whole nine yards. When I gave the trooper my license and insurance, he looked at it, then at me and said "this is a male's license". I have always heard honesty is the best policy when dealing with law enforcement so I told him the truth, I'm a crossdresser. I wasn't really nervous at the time. It then began to get weird. The trooper stated he thought he smelled marijuana in the car and asked if I had been drinking. I told him I do not smoke at all nor had I had anything to drink at all that day. He asked me to come back to his vehicle while he looked up my license, which I did. There were further questions including, did I have anything in the car I shouldn't have, where had I been, where was I going to, where I worked, if I had any drugs or alcohol in the car. I did tell him I am an RN and don't drive after drinking or use marijuana as I would risk losing my license. During the whole proceeding I felt I was being singled out for the way I was dressed. When he could not find any further reason to detain me, the trooper gave me a citation and I was on my way. It was probably one of the strangest experiences I have had in quite a while.

i have been stopped by police twice while in femme .on both occasions the officers were polite and curtious .they checked my license and gave me a warning for my offense and sent me on my way

[Barbara Jo]

The fact that you ran a stop sign and got pulled over for that gives the police the legal right to question you about other things. It was not a random stop.

Although cross dressing might no be a crime, most states have laws the make it a crime to conceal your true identity while committing a crime . He just wanted to make sure this was not the case.

Fact is, cops get suspicious when things are not how they are supposed to be and a man dressed completely as a woman is not the norm.

[MelanieAnne]

Cops often ask if they can search your vehicle. Respond with a question. "What are you looking for officer, and why would you expect to find it in my vehicle"? Or if you feel brave just say, "You know the rules. If you want to fish, get a license"! Being dressed en fem always puts us at a disadvantage, because we are nervous, and want to avoid any trouble. But a cop still needs probable cause to search your vehicle. I have no idea why they ask if you have anything in your vehicle that you are not supposed to have. Ask the cop for a list of prohibited items, so you can look it over and decide!

[krissy]

I got pulled over on IH35 at About 10.00 at night my ex would dress me then tell me to do embarassing things like walk to store buy gum and she woulg follow behind me and laugh i was so desperate to dress with some one i did it.any way when i got pulled over the policeman asked me to get out of car i had a real short white dress on pink panties stockings and heels makeup a wig i had to face the car while he searched the car i felt that all the cars on the highway were staring at me he put me in the front seat of his car said he was looking for any warrants.i knew i didnt have any so he offered me a cig wanted to know why i dressed this way i told him its what i like to do .he told me that i was lucky to not go to jail tonight i freaked out started saying please no no no he told me to calm down i was going home but i should think about where i go dresses i told him thanks for letting me go and that i would go straight home went and told my wife she laughed at me i didnt care i got to dress:hugs::cheer:OH TO BE YOUNG AND SMALL AGAIN

[Barbara Jo]

Cops often ask if they can search your vehicle. Respond with a question. "What are you looking for officer, and why would you expect to find it in my vehicle"? Or if you feel brave just say, "You know the rules. If you want to fish, get a license"! Being dressed en fem always puts us at a disadvantage, because we are nervous, and want to avoid any trouble. But a cop still needs probable cause to search your vehicle. I have no idea why they ask if you have anything in your vehicle that you are not supposed to have. Ask the cop for a list of prohibited items, so you can look it over and decide!

Actually, if there is no legal reason for then to search you car, by law , they have to ask for your permission to do so.
The constitution prohibits an illegal search but if they get your permission they are free to search under the law.

Of course, they always try to stretch exactly what a legal reason to search is and/or con you, intimidated you into giving permission.
So , if you act like you do not want them to search, they then say that you have suspicious behavior and it gives them legal grounds to search.

I first started driving in the '60s and have noticed a steady erosion of the police not respecting driver's constitutional rights.

[Jeninus]

Many years ago when I did some criminal defense work, I saw police officers, while testifying under oath in DUI cases, rattle off the tired old line that the defendant had a "strong odor of alcohol on his breath," that his eyes were bloodshot and that his speech was slurred - whether it was true or not seemed not to matter to the judges and the juries always seemed to accept it as gospel - after all, why would an officer lie? So now they create probable cause for a search of the vehicle (and your person) by stating that they smell marijuana. If they "find" a baggie in your vehicle during their search, what then? In 99 times out of 100, if it's your word against the officers of the peace, you lose.

Having those trial experiences (one of many reasons I stopped taking any criminal cases years and years ago - "They're all guilty, they're all broke and they expect miracles" as one lawyer put it) and having a niece whose ex husband was a local cop, a bully and a creep, my advice is to be polite and cooperative if you are stopped by the police for a traffic offense. And don't please don't drive if you have been drinking or indulging in proscribed substances - most especially if you are out en femme (that's what designated drivers and taxis are for after a night out on the town).

[Stephanie47]

I've been pulled over four times over the years for some minor infraction and in four different jurisdictions in my area. The only thing I was asked for was my license and proof of insurance. I'm sure the officers checked for warrants. At no time was I asked whether I was drinking or smoked weed. Any police officer has the ability to smell either. If you do not think either emits an odor, you just don't realize you emit such smells.

A family friend is a state patrol officer. He says, if he wants a reason to stop a vehicle, all he has to do is drive behind his target. Sooner or later the driver will do a minor infraction: illegal lane change, drifting, anything. Maybe, it's just around my locale that the police officers have better things to do than randomly harass drivers.

On the other hand I have seen police officers lie in court under oath and get caught by the judge. As a federal civil enforcement officer I have had it suggested to me "their case" would be stronger IF the defendant had said THIS rather than THAT.

The best course of action is to comply with reasonable requests and do not lie. And, do not offer information that is asked for.

[Caden Lane]

... And if you are going to break the law, break as few as possible!

Usually if I pulled somebody over for one infraction, if it was minor enough, and they were polite, I'd issue a warning. But if obvious other charges started stacking up and/or they were rude, then my opinion was they bought and paid for them.

[MelanieAnne]

If you consent to a search, anything they find can be used against you. If you refuse a search, and they search anyway, a lawyer can often get whatever they find thrown out, unless they can show clearly articulable probable cause for the search.
Also, they can almost always get a dog to "alert". They walk the dog around the vehicle, then suddenly slap the fender startling the dog. Then they say the dog "alerted", and they go ahead and search. We really need smarter people on juries, instead of old seniors, unemployed people with nothing to do, and other disinterested people.

[Bailey420]

Sounds like that officer was a total douchecanoe, fishing for anything to give you a hard time :P

[Julie 29]

I too have been pulled over while en femme. On my way home from a Chi Chapter Meeting. I had completely forgot to turn my headlights on. With all the street lights on I thought my headlights were on. So I got pulled over on the interstate by a State Cop. Really nice officer that addressed me as Mam asked for my license and insurance. He was probably very surprised when he saw my Drivers license. Anyways he gave me a warning and I continued on home. Yes it was nerve wrecking at first when the officer initially pulled me over.

[Krisi]

It's very easy to advise someone on an Internet forum to resist a law enforcement officer, to refuse to answer questions, refuse to allow a search of the vehicle, etc. but the person giving this advice has no stake in the outcome, he or she is sitting safely at home behind a keyboard.

The officer can make things difficult for you if he or she wants to. Common sense would tell us to be as cooperative as possible with a person who has the ability to make things very difficult for you. The police are out there protecting us from criminals and from unsafe drivers. If you are neither, they are on your side.

[Jessicajane]

In Australia you can request a GLLO officer if you feel you are not being treated fairly, to be honest I am not sure how well this works as I have never had to do it because whilst they may not have exactly been impressed with a trans driver they have always been sufficiently respectful and polite.

[Caden Lane]

Krisi, suggesting the police are on your side is a bit of a misnomer. They do not know you. They do not know your intentions, what you are capable of, what you will or won't do or what evils you do or do not subscribe to. Because of that, they will treat you like they treat all the other criminals and unsafe drivers, and therefor they will not treat you as though you are on their side. They most certainly will not treat you as though they are on yours. You are a statistic to them. A ticket or citizen contact statistic. But also a statistic that harms police. A statistic they have driven into their minds during training that is capable of doing unspeakable harm to them and turning them into a different sort of statistic if they let their guard down.

Do you know who else allows them to search their cars? People with guns or dope. They say yes to the request hoping the nice officer will just go away since it looks like they've nothing to hide. Their cars are summarily tossed, personal items rifled through, and detained even longer. I've even seen some troopers pull out tool kits and remove seats and panels. Of course they aren't obligated to put them the way they were. So feel free to give them permission to search as a former police officer, I've no intention of doing it. That alone should tell you something. If they think they can make a case against me, then fine, they are going to have to work for it. I will not make it easy for them. Especially considering that I do not do anything illegal. If they say they smell an odor associated with drugs or an alcoholic beverage, I know they are making it up with hopes of getting into my car. If they get a dog to alert, they will find nothing and have a negative alert they will have to explain on their K9s log sheet.

Be cooperative, be understanding, be conversational. Know your rights as to what questions you have to answer. If you feel comfortable, answer them. But draw the line if they ask to search. If you know you've done no wrong, roll with it. Odds are, they will back down. Worse case, they call a dog. Worst case, and these happen less than people think; they will fake a case against you. There are simply too many good cases to be made for them to put in the time and effort to fake a case.

[Ellen2d]

I sometimes carry. What I was told in training was to present my carry permit with my DL. This is what I did. The patrolman then asked if I was carrying to which I replied yes and he followed up asking where. I told him and that was the end of it. I've always been respectul to police and will continue to do so. They often perform a thankless job.

[ophelia]

Interesting thread. My last few non-dressed interactions with Ottawa Police Service doesn't leave me with much confidence. Please tell me that not all cops are small-minded macho pissheads.

[girlfriendpaola]

omg, I cannot imagine this in Russia)))) I would be sooo much in trouble)))

[Sallee]

sounds like he was looking for something to bust you for but failed. Glad he stopped when he did and didn't try to plant something. You sure handled it the correct way Total complete honesty and respect for him. I sure you were the talk of his station when he got back.

[Krisi]

The officer was doing his job, protecting the public. Nothing more, nothing less. Try putting yourself in his position. Every traffic stop could be his last.

[Ellen2d]

So true. Yesterday in Minnesota an individual was convicted of First Degree Murder of a police officer. All he was doing was making a traffic stop.

[Sometimes Steffi]

One of the things I read is that if an officer asks you something, ou should ask him if it request or a demand.

If he says can I search your car and you agree, it is a legal search. If you say no, he would need probable cause, The marijuana question is his ecue to determine probable cause, but could have he search declared illegal. If the search is illegal, then nothing found during the search can be used against you. In fact (at least in Virginia), you're not required to take a field sobriety check. But if you get to the police station, you do need to take their Breathalyzer test.

[DorothyElizabeth]

In Maryland, if there is any hint that you will be charged with an alcohol violation, insist on a breathalyzer. If you do not, and they decide to charge you, you will also be charged with refusing one. Several years ago, I was pulled over after I had been to a wine tasting. I had not swallowed any, but, of course smelled like I had been drinking. (Fortunately, I was wearing all "man clothes".) The officer said, "The breathalyzer is being calibrated. It will be an hour or more before we can get it here. But I can give you a field sobriety test." It was about twenty degrees out, with a stiff wind out of the North, and all I was wearing was jeans, a tee shirt and a blazer, so was freezing. So I said, "OK, what ever is the simplest." As I was walking a straight line, heel to toe, a gust of wind came up, and I had to put out my foot to keep from being blown over. I was arrested and charged with driving while impaired, taken to the station and booked. They held me for four hours, and then I was taken before a Master, who read the charges. They had charged me with refusing a breathalyzer. Ultimately, the entire thing cost me $1200.00 in attorney's fees, and the judge found me guilty, despite my plea of not guilty. I got supervised probation before judgment, and had to report to a parole officer once a week for the next year, at a cost of $25.00 per visit, and extra $25.00 each, for three urine tests, and had to attend a Mothers Against Drunk Driving meeting and "donate" $50.00 to them. It is mostly a big money game. So now, if there is even a hint that I will be charged with drinking, I request a breathalyzer. I did that this past Sunday, when I was on my way home from playing a show, and was pulled over in one of those general traffic road blocks, where they stop every vehicle, trying to catch drunks after the Superbowl. After my experience in 2012, I don't trust police any further than I can throw them.

[Ressie]

did I have anything in the car I shouldn't have

only the body in the trunk officer. here's your sign...

[MelanieAnne]

In Michigan, you have to take a breathalyzer if asked. You do not have to do monkey tricks on the side of the highway, in front of their dashcam. Tell the officer there will be no sobrieties! Be firm about it. Tell him if he has probable cause to believe you have been drinking alcohol, to get a PBT and a superviser down here! If they say it will take an hour to get a PBT down there, so be it! Tell them you'll be happy to wait! That hour works in your favor. Field sobrieties are not in your favor. But the video can be used to convict you, even in the absence of a breathalyzer. Older people often have small balance problems, and you should never perform for their cameras. It can only work against you.

[Tiffanyselkoe]

Oddly enough, this does not make me nervous about going out dressed. My wife worries about me though.

[sara.rafaela]

I have been pulled over a few times. When I drive I do not drink, but they seem to target anyone driving around the bar zone at 1 or 2 am.

Worst time: I was not dressed. Officer stopped me, said my licence plate light was out, a lie. Immediately wanted to search my car. I told him if he had a legal reason to, then he would not need my permission, so no permission. DUI feild sobriety test. I thought I passed because I was sober. Arrested me for under the influence of crystal methamphetamine. Tests came back negative of course. DA declined to clear my record. They said they woul leave the charges pending, awaiting further evidence. I had to file a law suit and finally settled for $18,000.

Weirdest time: I was dressed. Officer stopped me, said I had run a stop sign and was traveling at high speed, lies. Field sobriety test. Breathalyzer, blew 0.0001 or something like that. They let me go with nothing. The next day I was going to my hotel, not dressed and an officer was following me. I parked at the hotel. The officer stopped behind me and said he was following me because my brake light was out. It was not. It was the same officer from the night before and he asked if I remembered him. I got the vibe that he wanted me to get dressed up again and ask him out for a drink. Weird. Then, two years later I was pulled over again for the same brake light in Yosemite, also a lie. I could swear that that Park Ranger was the same San Mateo PD officer as before.

[MelanieAnne]

Nothing good is ever going to come from police investigating themselves.

[Beverley Sims]

You only have to present a little different from what they think is the norm and then all the tricky questions come out. :)

[Brynna M]

I'm sure that was unnerving. I'm going to be an optimist and suggest that the officer was not prejudiced but was confronted with someone who looked so little like their male license that he was suspicious. :)

[abby054]

Glad you survived and not too much the worse for wear.

Your cop seems like cops here. Ours make up stuff to see if their intended victim will make a mistake. I have found through experience that it usually takes one or two felonies committed by the cop to make a speeding ticket stick here. My first ticket, the cop committed perjury in court and so obviously that it was easy to challenge. The judge came to his rescue by committing felony extortion from the bench. I was lucky to get out of there with no more than a hefty traffic fine. Oh to be a fly on the wall when the judge talked to the cop after that incident. I now avoid court. I always hire a lawyer to plea bargain any ticket no matter how small. My next ticket, the cop committed felony assault at the traffic stop. He returned to stalk me the next night and had one of his cop buddies stop me after I crossed the state line. (My house is about a mile from the state line.). His cop buddy anticipated an easy DUI, but I never drink (actually have a documented allergy to alcohol). The cop buddy just stood there for a few seconds and then decided that I would be a lot more work than he was willing to do. Oh to be a fly on the wall when those two cops saw each other next. The first cop's court clerk wrote out a summons with the wrong date, in hopes of getting me for failure to appear. Good thing I had a good lawyer--same lawyer who got a felony reckless driving accusation against my daughter completely dismissed. (Same cop, by the way). My only other ticket in 20 years here, for tailgating, my lawyer plea bargained down to $100. I was in drab for all of these incidents. I cannot even imagine what would have happened if I was en femme.

[MelanieAnne]

It's very easy to advise someone on an Internet forum to resist a law enforcement officer, to refuse to answer questions, refuse to allow a search of the vehicle, etc. but the person giving this advice has no stake in the outcome, he or she is sitting safely at home behind a keyboard.

No one is advising anyone to "resist a law enforcement officer". The Constitution gives you certain rights, for good reasons. Standing up for your rights is not resisting a law enforcement officer. Police do not stop you to get acquainted and be your friend. They stop you to see if they can find something wrong, and write you a ticket or arrest you. That makes it an adversarial relationship from the get go. Why would anyone want to cooperate with someone who is trying to arrest them or write a ticket. Politely standing up for your rights is not resisting! Police count on you being scared and rolling over and giving up all your rights. If you politely refuse a search, they immediately accuse you of having something to hide, even if they have no reason to search. That's too bad. There are rules they have to follow, and making them follow the rules is not resisting. If you present a valid drivers license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance, and you are conducting yourself in a lawful manner, it is none of their business where you are going, or where you have been.

[Teresa Monsivais]

A a couple years ago I was on the phone and made an illegal u-turn while in femme and a cop caught me red handed. I immediately hung up and pulled over and waited for the cop to approach the car. I handed over my license and he noticed I was not the person on the license. I told him if he wanted me to get out of the car but politely told me that wouldn't be necessary and gave me back my license and told me to be careful and let me go. I must have given him a scare lol but I was glad he let me go without a issuing me a ticket.

[DebbieL]

The first time I was pulled over as Debbie, I gave the officer my driver's license, and he spent almost 45 minutes checking every agency he could to see if I had any history of criminal activity. At some point he hit an agency that knew who I was, and came back with an apology. He gave me a ticket for a broken tail light. I had checked them recently and asked if I could check the trunk to see what had happened. It turned out that my suitcase (guess what that was for? :-) had knocked the wire lose. I fixed it and he told me he would sign the "fixed" notation right there, but I still had to send in the ticket because he needed probable cause for the background check.

Later, I was pulled over for other things, like parking in a lot to get my bearings, or driving too slowly, and after being checked, found the police officer extraordinarily polite when he returned. When stopped, I would turn on the dome light, get my driver's license, registration insurance, and registration, then put both hands on the top of the steering wheel before rolling down the window. When he asked for the documents, I would hand them over and put both hands back on the wheel (car turned off as well).

I'm still not sure which agency makes the police so nice, but I am very grateful that they do.

It may help that I only get pulled over about ever 4-5 years.

[Tracii G]

All those questions are standard operating procedure so nothing out of the ordinary.
The thing is if he says I think I smell weed/alcohol then that is his justification to search your car.Its called "just cause".
Then that is where the sticky part is,if he searches your vehicle and drops a bag of weed or pills then you are sunk.
I got lucky last time I got pulled over. He turned the lights on me so I got off the road and pulled into a shopping center parking lot where 15 -20 people were standing in front of a Subway restaurant.
He asked all those same questions and I answered politely.He said I smelled marijuana in your car so I am going to have to search it.
I said I do not consent to a search and he told me he had probable cause I said well OK then.If I had pushed it I would have been taken to jail for obstruction.
Any way all those people were standing there and one young guy in the crowd said dude we got your back if that cop drops anything in your car we will see it and raise hell.
I nodded to the guy and stood there, the cop told me to stand back so I did.
After the search he said you are free to go just be careful.
My infraction was me not using the turn signal in a dedicated right turn lane.
If that group of people weren't there it could have been very different.

[Jenniferbabe]

When going on a road trip by myself, I occasionally like to wear form fitting jeans and a snug top with my breast forms and padded panties. I have tinted windows so the only time I have any concerns is when I have to access toll roads which then I am forced to cover up with a wind breaker jacket. Haven't been pulled over in almost 20 years so I am very fortunate.