Posted on 07/10/2006 6:53:23 PM PDT by StACase
My back yard backs onto a pond with a park on the other side where for over 25 years the local July 4th fireworks have been set off. I have an annual party and the best seat in the house. This past July 4th I was with some of my guests down by the pond when a plain clothes cop hollers across the water at me and my guests that if we cross his yellow police line set up at the park entrance he would arrest us. I hollered back, just keep your barricade out of my yard, and that was the end of it, or so I thought.
As it turns out, and I didn't see it, but I am told that some time later this cop came through my yard and told my neighbor's guests they were too close to the fireworks and would have to move. That's why I'm lucky, had I seen it, I'm sure I would have gotten in this cop's face and most probably would have tried to shove him into the pond.
yes
Most LEO's go into it for the little power it brings them.
Hmm? Where was the barrier? Draw a map.
Yes. Not that I can't relate though.
So do you think it's ok for a cop to enter your property and order people around just because he feels like it?
well, you're not in jail, nor scheduled to see the local judge. cops are like any group, you get your Andy Taylors, and then you get your Barney Fifes. even though it's your private property, go a bit easy, they do have to deal with a lot of crap on a daily basis.
He just sounds overly officious. Why not call in and speak to a supervisor if you think it rates it?
Was the cop's issue a safety buffer issue or a crowd control/admissions fee issue?
You personally? Show's I've been to, cops have been called or hired to protect the perimeter from people getting too close, and in the case of water shows... the Coast Guard or police boats enforce the line.
Well, I think that you're very astute. :^)
Not overheated, but you need to learn how to talk to cops.
The first step is get him on record: 'Can you put that in writing sir' (the sir is important, you don't have to mean it.)
Then ask to speak to his supervisor.
If he gives you any answer but '(s)he will be hear as soon as reasonably possible' politely order him off your property.
You don't want to touch him, he'll shoot you, get away with it and get a medal.
Also bear in mind it could be a rent-a-cop. They tread very close to impersonating an officer on a daily basis.
Finally consider you might mess up a good thing. The fireworks might be too close to your house. Making too much noise could end the display for everyone.
Exactly - our family business butts up against the airport - when the blue angels come - we have THE best seat for miles - even better than the vip tent....weve had some troopers refuse us entry to our property - but they quickly back down when you threaten legal action.....Ive also found that a well placed letter, copied to several depts (police / fire etc) detailing your concerns often prompts a visit in which security and your concerns can be frankly discussed
we havent had a problem for years, and weve come to a common understanding
Weve aquiesced in that we no longer go up on our roof with lawn chairs during the show....other than that - we have full and complete access to our property
Yes
Has your letter ever extended an invitation to watch the show from your location? They probably have kids too.
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