Re: JAMBO97 AUTO Travel tips - radar
Paul H. Brown (phbrown@CAPACCESS.ORG)
Sat, 3 May 1997 15:27:53 -0400
>
> First, yes, radar detectors ARE illegal in VA.
Second, if you are caught
> USING one in VA, the police would be within their rights to confiscate
> the unit.
Its evidence of the crime. Of course its going to be taken.
I've never heard about the "destruction-on-the-spot"
> practice, though. It might be a "frontier-justice" alternative to
> confiscation and ticketing.
The detector is returned to the guilty party after the evidence is no
longer needed. IOW, when the fine is paid. The miscreant is responsible
for arranging ( and paying for) shipment.
As to the further search, that would be
> subject to the rather arcane 4th Amendment requirements, but in general,
> being stopped for possession and use of a radar detector doesn't strike
> me as sufficient probable cause to warrent a full-vehicle, warrentless
> search. If the officer asks, and you consent, you've waived your right
> to object, though.
>
The police don't need much in the way of "probable cause" to search an
auto, these days.
> I'm not sure of the exact scope of the VA law, but if I was travelling
> in VA with a radar detector, I'd disconnect the unit and store it in the
> trunk, preferrably in the luggage. Under those circumstances, the
> chances of your being stopped and the unit confiscated and/or destroyed
> is minimal.
> --
Steve is correct. In the trunk, its not available. Under the seat, it
is (even if it is off or disconnected).
Unlike some of our more advanced brethren, we Virginians haven't yet
figured out a use for a radar detector that doesn't involve, at least in
part, an attempt to evade the highway speed limits. So, we take this toy
away if motorists use them in the Commonwealth.
Come on to the Jamboree, anyway. 65 mph just gets you there a little slower.
Paul H. Brown, KD4UPD
I used to be an Antelope, WB 82-66
Pack Committee Chairman, Unit Commissioner, Roundtable Commissioner
George Washington District, National Capital Area Council, BSA
Terry Howerton Sakima Group, Inc. SCOUTER Magazine Kansas City |
