2007-03-25 15:28:56 · 21 answers · asked by Anonymous in Politics & Government ➔ Law Enforcement & Police
Sure you can. Might not be illegal, but it's pretty damn stupid.
2007-03-25 15:53:55 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Why would you show contempt to another citizen in the first place?
Legally, a middle finger may be considered protected speech under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Speech can be verbal or non-verbal.
However, in effect, an officer may pull you over, if he has a reasonable suspicion that criminal activity is afoot.
Since normal people would not effectuate the aforementioned gesture towards a cop, the officer's rational for pulling you over might be that he suspected that you were either high or drunk, and operating a motor vehicle, if your were driving; or public intoxication, if your were a pedestrian.
Thus, if you want to be hassled, go ahead and make you point...
2007-03-25 15:36:55 · answer #2 · answered by MenifeeManiac 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Not where I live. In law enforcement we commonly refer to this as P.O.C. or pissing off the cop and when you commit a poc you will either get a ticket or go to jail. :) But, seriously, I am in criminal law and when you shoot the finger you may be guilty of disorderly conduct in certain places. Using profane language or doing something like this in public may end up with you either being detained or ticketed.
2007-03-25 15:34:19 · answer #3 · answered by Lisa M 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I don't know about legally.... but you sure can flip him off!!! Be prepared to be pulled over, and your car gone over with a fine tooth comb.... and I GUARANTEE the cop WILL find something to write you a ticket for. OH YEAH..... and good luck explaining how that brain cramp made it's way all the way down to your middle finger.
2007-03-25 15:57:41 · answer #4 · answered by dathinman8 5 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Personally I like it when someone gives me the finger. I've always thought that it's an indication of their emotional age, their IQ, as well as their last grade completed in school while telling me I'm #1... all in one simple gesture. Flip away. :)
2007-03-25 16:14:57 · answer #5 · answered by chuck_junior 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sure you can!! In fact you should stand on the street corner and yell profanities to the officer as well as flip him off. Hey! maybe you should moon him as well!
If you are going to demonstrate that you are a no class moron, you should leave no doubt.
2007-03-25 15:45:26 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Sure. Just remember that when you are in an accident or someone is trying to break into your house. Will you do it then? Or will that tough guy be cowering in the corner?
2007-03-25 15:34:03 · answer #7 · answered by ubiquitous_mr_lovegrove 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Texas:Disorderly conduct/vulgar gesture
problem is nobody could define 'vulgar gesture' so charge was dropped (and yes it was a cop,i recognized him from his uniformed patrol days.he was riding in a seized Caddy, undercover)
2007-03-26 18:41:08 · answer #8 · answered by Dontugetit 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Legally yes. Smart no
2007-03-25 15:40:26 · answer #9 · answered by CHARLES R 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
You can give anyone the finger, you might not like the result though.
2007-03-25 15:35:23 · answer #10 · answered by Political Enigma 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes ...BUT...they can legally look closer at your car....ask ANY officer..if they look close enoigh...they WILL find something wrong to give you a ticket.....Is it worth it to offend a cop...you will lose
2007-03-25 15:45:05 · answer #11 · answered by Real Estate Para Legal 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋