Taking Notes

Whenever you interact with or observe law enforcement officers, always write down what is said and who said it. Write down the law enforcement officers' names and badge numbers and the names and contact information of any witnesses. Record everything that happens. If you are expecting a lot of police contact, get in the habit of carrying a small tape recorder and a camera with you. Be careful—law enforcement officers don't like people taking notes, especially if they are planning to do something illegal. Observing them and documenting their actions may have very different results; for example, it may cause them to respond aggressively, or it may prevent them from abusing you or your friends.