ID Yourself, Cop!

[Zwanzig]

What is the name of your state? Pennsylvania

Is it a requirement for a police officer to identify themselves, including name, badge number, and department in person?

Does this law also adhere over the internet?

If so, does anyone know the law name/number that pertains to this?

Thank you for your assistance.

[CdwJava]

Originally Posted by Zwanzig

Is it a requirement for a police officer to identify themselves, including name, badge number, and department in person?

Not sure about PA, but I believe that most states have a provision requiring an officer ID themselves in certain situations - certainly not all.

If I am in plain clothes and trying to detain you, I will have to ID myself. If I am in uniform I'll be happy to tell you my name and ID number when we are done conducting business.

No rule or law about identifying one's self is going to outweight the officer's safety needs or ability to perform his duty.

Does this law also adhere over the internet?

Not likely. Why would it? Since you are neither acquiescing to his authority in a detention or subject to Miranda, there is certainly no reason for him/her to need to identify themself.

- Carl