Writer reminds parents and kids of rights
To the Editor:
I am not sure who is aware of this, but I happened to be enlightened last week by a police officer concerning a law that states "If your child is 14 years of age or over, the police have the right to question them without the parents permission." I am not sure what the laws are if your child is below the age of 14.
It is very sad that we MUST in my opinion, teach our children to say that they want an attorney and their parents present before they answer any questions asked by police. It is a double edged sword, you try to teach your children to have respect for the law and be helpful, but on the other hand you do not want your children innocently saying something that will be used against them later, possibly ruining their social or financial life. It is a no win situation for everyone involved. It is particularly difficult for me because I have relatives who are police officers and I have the utmost respect for law enforcement.
I would like to remind everyone of his or her rights according to the United States Constitution — Bill of Rights.
Amendment IV states that the people have the right to be secure in their persons, house, papers and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures,
I am in no way, shape or form stating not to cooperate with law enforcement and this is not legal advice. I strongly suggest contacting an attorney regarding your rights. I will not be responsible for anything that may happen resulting from exercising my opinion. I feel that we are a country of free choice and the following is simply the choice that I have made and plan to follow closely. I would like to share my opinion with you.
- If the police come to my door I will immediately ask what they want. I will stand in the middle of my doorway because if I step back they may see this as an invitation and my acceptance to their behavior. I will not invite them inside. If they want to speak to someone, take someone or search my property; I will ask for a warrant. If they insist, I will comply but state that they do not have permission and that I want an attorney.
- If the police have a warrant, I will read it. I will submit and let them carry out the details of the warrant. If I see them doing something that is not listed on the warrant, I will tell them they do not have permission and I want them to leave. If they want me to answer any questions, I will ask for a lawyer.
- If the police don't have a warrant, I will tell them that I do not want to speak to them and shut the door. If they say they are "detaining" me, I will ask for a lawyer and tell them I want to leave and I do not want to be with them. I will be very courteous, but hold my ground and I will not speak until my attorney is present.
- After I ask for an attorney, the police are NOT supposed to ask me any other questions. If they do, I will simply state, "I would like my attorney please."
I am able to write this letter because of my First Amendment right. Every United States citizen has rights and so do children. Your rights are personally yours, given to you by your ancestors.
Karla Weber-Mayfield
Walton
