Phone Confiscation During Stop

Summary

Police can only confiscate a phone during a traffic stop if it contains evidence of a crime. Not using a blinker is a traffic violation and doesnt justify phone seizure. If your phone was taken without valid reason, consider filing a complaint with the police department. Gather all relevant information and contact the departments internal affairs or professional standards unit.

Full Conversation

Can a police officer take my phone away during a traffic stop for not using my blinker for longer enough before switching lanes?
Hi ****! Generally, during a traffic stop in Arizona, a police officer can only take your phone if they have a valid reason to believe it contains evidence of a crime. Not using your blinker properly is a traffic violation, but it doesn't typically warrant phone confiscation. Did the officer provide any reason for taking your phone?
he said I was not allowed to call my manager to let her know I would be late for work
Hi ****! Sorry to hear about your situation. It sounds like the officer may not have had a valid reason to take your phone. You could consider filing a complaint with the police department. Would you like more information on how to do that?
Yes please
Case Rating: *
Filing a complaint with the police department is a good step. Here are the general steps you should follow:
- Gather all relevant information (date, time, officer's name/badge number, etc.).
- Write a detailed account of the incident.
- Contact the police department's internal affairs or professional standards unit.
- Submit your complaint in writing or online.
Would you like contact information for the local police department in your area?
Yes please it’s the yavapai county sheriffs department
Case Rating: *

Yavapai County Sheriff's Office


Phone: (*) *-*
Website: www.ycsoaz.gov

Would you like to know more about any other legal matters?