Strategies and Tactics of Patrol Stops (STOPS)
Strategies and Tactics of Patrol Stops (STOPS) deals with the uncertainty of a vehicle stop and how to survive. Officers learn what not to do during a low-risk, unknown risk, and a high-risk traffic stop. The goal of the STOPS program is to instruct sworn law enforcement officers in the following:
- Assessment of risks and threat cues by drivers and passengers
- Safe positioning of police and violator vehicles
- Safe methods for approaching vehicles and making contact with driver/passenger
- How to stop and approach vehicles other than passenger cars
- Case law regarding vehicle stops
- Safe methods for conducting “felony,” or high-risk stops
- Procedures and law regarding vehicle searches
- How to avoid citizen complaints and conflict with violators
- Risk factors that must be considered during a vehicle pursuit, which often begins with a traffic stop