Arrest Pocketbook - No One Is Illegal – Vancouver

Reason #2 – The Police areInvestigating You (Detention)If you ask if you are free to go and the policeofficer says no, you have the right to be told whyyou are being detained. Remember the reason thepolice officer gives you, if he gives you one. Get thebadge number or name of the police officer so thatyou will have it if you want to make a complaint.If you are being detained but you are not underarrest, you aren’t driving, and you haven’t brokenany laws, you don’t even have to give the policeofficer your name. If you don’twant to talk, say: “I wantto remain silent.” Youmay want to tell thepolice your name andaddress to show youare cooperative.Being DetainedIf you have not been arrested, but you are beingheld against your will, remember to:• Ask why you are being held.• Get the badge number or name of the policeofficer.• Stay silent and tell the police you are stayingsilent (if you feel safe doing so). You may, if youhave not committed any crime, wish to explainwhat you were doing that made the policesuspicious. Sometimes an explanation can enda police interaction more quickly.• Tell the police if you have needles with youbefore they search you. They’ll probably find theneedles anyway, and you don’t want toaccidentally hurt a police officer.6 7