Recently got a ticket while stationary in car in Washington DC, actually waiting to pull into gaurd gates at the Capital. I answered my cell phone, while being approached by a Capital Police officer. I immediatly told the caller "I'll call you back". It was Literally a 4 second phone call.
The Officer ordered me out of my vehicle and told me to stand against a wall, which I complied. After standing against a wall for many minutes I asked the officer, "Excuse me, what did I do?" For which he responded, "you disrespected me!"
He then gave me a $100 ticket.
I must write a letter of defense to the 'Hearings by mail" department to have this cleared up.
But what to do and say? This is just so horribly abuseful and wrong.
Thanks!!!!
2006-06-07 14:56:34 · 5 answers · asked by H_Blum 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
If it is Illegal to use the phone over there then you have no argument. If you want to fight it in court, not only will you lose but the court costs will work you up the a$$. Except that you got caught and never do it again, life sucks!
2006-06-07 15:01:38 · answer #1 · answered by I_Make_Movies_for_HBO 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Well, as far as I know, it's not against the law to disrespect a police officer, not that you did. If that's what the ticket says, it's eroneous. If it's for the cell phone use, and that is indeed against the law, you're dead in the water. You'll have to pay the court costs whether or not you actually go to court. you can file a seperate grievance for the officer's comment.
2006-06-07 15:11:25 · answer #2 · answered by DOOM 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I haven't seen any signs on this law in DC since it was first initiated last year (or whenever it was). I am really curious to see what happens. I have a feeling that this is another revenue producer for the city similar to the speed cameras that are all over the city. I think the fine is small enough to make you mad, but not big enough to make you give up a day's salary to fight it in court. Sorry I can't help, but good luck!
2006-06-07 17:02:21 · answer #3 · answered by Maria 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well, you need to tell exactly what happened. No officer ever has the right to say "You disrespected me."
I do have a problem with people talking on the phone while driving, but it's not like you were on 495 at the Wilson Bridge during rush hour. Seems pretty innocent to me.
2006-06-07 15:00:30 · answer #4 · answered by spmdrumbass 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've heard a lot of people have gotten their tickets waived if they show up in court with a receipt for some sort of headset or hands free device for their cell phone (purchased, of course, after the ticket).
2006-06-08 03:08:42 · answer #5 · answered by irishharpist 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋