Being approached by police officers can be daunting, particularly if you have been identified as a suspect. Your fight-or-flight response will likely kick in, but neither fighting nor running are good options.
Here are some of the main reasons why you shouldn’t run from the police.
The physical dangers
Firstly, running from the police is dangerous on several levels. If you are in a built-up area, then you run the risk of being hit by oncoming traffic. Also, you could fall or your heart rate could increase so much because of adrenaline and physical assertion that it becomes dangerous. You’re also potentially giving police officers a reason to use physical force. While they should only use proportionate force to try and stop you, there are no guarantees that things won’t get out of hand.
Placing yourself in physical danger by running simply isn’t worth it. If you remain calm, then matters can be straightened out at the station once you have sought further legal guidance.
The legal reasons not to run
While police officers are free to approach you and ask questions, you’re not obliged to answer them. You cannot be detained or arrested without the police having evidence. In many situations, you may be free to leave calmly after stating that you don’t wish to talk and asking if you can walk away. If you run, then the police officers might interpret it as the reasonable suspicion and probable cause that they need to take further actions, such as detaining you and making an arrest.
Remember, fleeing to elude law enforcement is also a criminal offense in Florida. Even if you had not initially committed an offense, by running away, you could face separate charges.
If you are approached by law enforcement, it’s important to remain calm and remember that you have a host of legal rights.
