At some point in our lives it is more likely than not that you will have contact with a police officer.
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Sometimes the outcome of your contact with police may be a bummer but on the other hand the next contact you have with police may be a very positive experience.
We all know what a NSW General Duties Police Officer looks like in uniform.
Two tones, dark blue cargo pants and a light blue shirt with “NSW Police” written on a patch which also includes an eagle within a circle of words “New South Wales Police Force”.
It’s not high fashion but it is recognisable.
You should see an equipment belt with a gun hanging off it, maybe a baton, taser or capsicum spray container as well.
But what if you were stopped by person who is not in police uniform but claims to be a police officer?
A detective for instance may be wearing a nice suit or dress and be driving an unmarked vehicle.
Other officers in other departments are not required to wear the uniform and if you pass them on the street you are none the wiser.
However, if you have contact with an out of uniform police officer or someone who says they are a police officer, it is your right to ask that person to provide some identification to prove that he/she is a police officer.
All police have been issued with identification in the form of a badge.
You can get on the interweb and see what it looks like.
If the alleged police officer is unable to produce any identification then it is very possible that the person you are speaking to is not a police officer.
If you have any doubts as to the validity of a police officer, always check by calling your local police station or triple-0.
Remember that you can Dob in a Druggie any time you like by contacting Nowra Police or ringing Crime Stoppers.
As always, in case of an emergency call 000. In non-emergencies call the Policelink on 131 444 or your local police station. To provide anonymous information call Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000. For domestic and family violence information, visit www.police.nsw.gov.au. For Shoalhaven Domestic Violence officers call 4421 9666 or 4421 9665 or email shoaldvlo@police.nsw.gov.au.
Don’t forget, cops are tops.
