Can Delta College Police make traffic stops off of campus?
Yes. Campus Police Officers have the same authority as a city Police Officer and may make traffic stops whenever they see a violation occur, even if the violation occurs while the officer is off of campus. As a general rule, we do not deliberately go outside of our jurisdiction seeking to enforce traffic, as we are paid to protect Delta College, however, we do have the authority and will take such action when necessary.
What do I do if I am stopped by a Police Officer in my car?
Traffic stops are one of the most dangerous actions a Police Officer encounters. The officer never knows exactly what they are approaching. When emergency lights are activated behind you, pull IMMEDIATELY to the right and come to a stop. Do not try to find a good area to stop. The officer will instruct you with their public address system if they wish you to continue to a safer area. Turn off your engine and place both of your hands on the steering wheel. DO NOT GET OUT OF THE CAR, unless the officer instructs you to do so. Provide all documents requested of you. The officer may, or may not cite you for the violation. If you do get cited, sign the ticket and continue on your way after the officer instructs you to leave.
Do I have to sign the ticket?
Yes. It is important to know that you are not admitting you committed the violation when you sign the ticket. You are simply signing a written "Promise to Appear" notice. If you refuse to sign the ticket, you may be arrested and transported to jail. If you wish to dispute the ticket, do not refuse to sign the ticket. Sign it and take the officer to Traffic Court. Let the judge hear your side of the story and make a ruling on the matter.
How can I appeal a traffic citation?
Within 21 days of receiving your traffic citation, you will receive paperwork from the court, advising you of the violations and associated fines. In that paperwork, you will find information on how to appeal the traffic ticket. If you decide to appeal the citation, you will be required to appear in court at a later date for a traffic hearing. At this time, the issuing officer will inform the court as to why the citation was issued. You will then have the opportunity to make a statement and directly ask the officer questions regarding the citation, or the circumstances that led to the citation. The judge will then make a ruling based on the evidence presented.
