The Office of Police Complaints is recommending that the Metropolitan Police Department revise its current policies for off-duty officers enforcing traffic rules.
"We have received a number of complaints where motorists were stopped by officers who were not in uniform," says Nicole Porter, a special assistant with the OPC. "They were off duty and they were driving either their personal vehicle or MPD vehicle. And these motorists were stopped for minor traffic violations, or for incidents in which these MPD officers were involved in."
Porter admits it's not a widespread problem, but says the incidents have an impact on public perception. "It's really impacting the public's trust with officers."
The OPC notes there are three policies in effect, but say they're confusing and each is in a different place.
MPD officials say their current policy is adequate and that the six complaints listed in the recommendation don't warrant change.
Copyright WAMU 88.5 - American University Radio. All Rights Reserved.
