Constitutional Law: Lessons Learned Recommendations from Civil Rights Litigation
When conducting investigatory stops
- Officers introduce themselves by name, rank, and agency
- Inform the subject of the reason for the stop or detention as soon as possible
- Inform the subject that they do not have the right to leave but that they do have a right to not to answer questions
- by any device (e.g. body-worn camera, dashcam)
- Ensure that the detention is no longer than
- Ensure they are conducted in accordance with the rights protected by the Constitution and state, federal and local laws
The information provided above has come directly from the consent decree language, which can be accessed by clicking on each corresponding city’s consent decree. When additional information was needed, subject-matter experts from the Department of Justice provided input. This information is intended to guide departments on decisions and actions to improve their Constitutional policing practices. Additional resources and information may be needed to implement these recommendations successfully. For assistance in implementing recommendations, contact the Knowledge Lab team.