Q&A for How to Spot Undercover Cops

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Question

Do undercover cops have to identify themselves?

Drew Hawkins1

Community Answer

It's a common misconception that undercover cops have to identify themselves as police officers if you ask them. Cops in plainclothes do have to identify themselves if they're acting in an official police capacity such as arresting you or requesting identification. However, if a cop is undercover and on an operation, then no, they do not have to identify themselves and are allowed to lie to you about their identities.

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Question

How can you tell if someone is a cop?

Drew Hawkins1

Community Answer

Undercover cops do not have to identify themselves, so you'll have to use other clues to figure out if someone is a cop. You could check their vehicle to see if it has nondescript plates or dark window tinting that looks like a cop car. You could also check their appearance for hints. If they have short, neat haircuts and are wearing cargo pants or shorts, it could mean they're a cop. They may also try to earn your trust quickly, even though you don't know who they are, so be wary of overly-friendly strangers.

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Question

Can undercover cops drink?

Drew Hawkins1

Community Answer

Yes, undercover cops who are on an assignment are allowed to drink up to 2 drinks in order to maintain their cover. However, off-duty cops in uniform or plainclothes cops who are on duty aren't allowed to legally drink. If you suspect a cop is drinking when they shouldn't be, contact your local police department to report it.

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Question

How to approach a suspected undercover cop at a party to have him thrown out?

Lauren Schlatter

Community Answer

You don't. If it's an undercover cop, they are present to do their job. You can't just throw them out.

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Question

Can you ask an undercover cop in private if they are a cop?

Ruby

Top Answerer

Legally, they don't have to disclose if they are or not. Even if you ask in private, they still aren't required to tell the truth.

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