New York Traffic Stop Highlights Law Enforcement’s Right To Demand Identification

A man wanted on a felony warrant in New York turned up in Lebanon County following a simple traffic stop in East Hanover.

Rasheed Crosland was riding in a car on I81 South when the vehicle was pulled over, and State Police smelled marijuana.

During the stop, law enforcement demanded the driver and Crosland provide identification. Crosland gave a false name and was taken to the state police station. When Crosland arrived, things got serious, the 23-year-old got squared and provided his actual name.

Crosland was charged with false identification, and the state troopers found he had outstanding felony warrants from NYPD and New York City adult probation.

Crosland is being held in Lebanon County Jail with a $55,000 cash bail coming between him and his freedom.

What If Police Claim To Smell Pot?

If a cop says they smell marijuana in your car, you are in a sticky situation. Court rulings indicate the odor of contraband provides officers with sufficient reason to establish probable cause for a search. Because of this, cops are quick to claim they smell pot and — wait for it — may even lie about it.

All the driver or passengers can say is, “I have nothing to hide, but I don’t consent to be searched.” If law enforcement searches anyone — and finds something — call a lawyer to help fight the case.

Yes. Cops will do this if they are suspicious of you for some reason. Stay calm and let your attorney do the talking.

Sometimes the cop will mention pot just to see a reaction. Appear nervous, and the cop’s suspicions escalate. Cops think they can tell by looking if someone is a “pothead.” Be extra careful of anything about your clothes or vehicle which yells “stoner.”

Don’t ever smoke pot in or around your vehicle. Smoking pot in public places such as vehicles is the #1 reason for otherwise avoidable arrests.

The police do not have a right to demand a person’s name or address without reason. A cop can just ask for your name and address if they believe you have committed a crime or are about to commit a crime.

New York has “Stop and Identify” statutes requiring someone suspected of criminal activity to provide ID to law enforcement. Refusing to comply is a crime.