Say you and a group of other cops are on a night out, you’re all a few drinks in. You witness a crime in progress. Are you obligated to interfere, or are you specifically told not to get involved (beyond calling it in) due to being under the influence of alcohol?
Cops night out
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Depends on the crime.
A rape versus a public intoxication probably warrant two different responses.
Don’t know how it works elsewhere. I’m a civilian and I asked my friend who is an NYPD detective. If he’s had alcohol, nope. He just calls 911 and identifies himself. If he gets involved and worst case needs to use force, that won’t go well with IA.
By my department’s policy, if I was in my city’s jurisdiction, my only requirement would be to call 911. They would definitely not want me getting involved in something while i am impaired.
Neither.
You can interfere if you want but you are under no obligation to do so. Most will “be the best witness” and no more or less.
Good luck interfering without pulling your badge and gun, the latter of which is illegal to carry if you’re intoxicated (in my state).
In that situation, it’s usually best to just be a good witness unless someone’s life is in danger. They would not be required to get involved, especially if they’re impaired or have been drinking.