The police can stop you while walking if they have reasonable suspicion of a crime. For example, they may stop you if they suspect public intoxication or see you loitering.
Here is what to do when stopped by the police on the streets:
Stay calm
Try as much as possible to remain calm. Do not run, argue or obstruct them even when you believe they are violating your rights. But pay attention to everything they do.
Keep your hands visible
Do not keep your hands in your pocket or at the back – the officer should see them at all times.
Exercise your rights
When stopped by the police, you have the right to remain silent. However, you need to audibly and politely inform the officer that you do not wish to answer their questions.
Further, if the police believe you are carrying a weapon or any evidence of a crime, they may pat down your clothing and any accessible containers, such as a purse or backpack. However, to further search you or your belongings, they will request your consent. You have the right to refuse consent for any further search.
Nonetheless, if they find evidence of a crime during their pat down, they can look inside your pockets, purse, backpack or any other accessible container. The police can also do this when they believe a pat down is not enough to establish if you have evidence of a crime and when they have probable cause to believe they will find evidence of a crime.
Ask if you are free to leave
Before leaving, ask the officer if you are free to leave. If you are, calmly walk away. If they want to arrest you, respectfully ask for the reason behind their decision.
You should know how to interact with the police when stopped. Learn more about your rights to avoid making costly mistakes.