[RWebb]

here is a supplement to the numerous threads on the potential for abuse by cops, LEO, deputies, state troopers, law enforcement officers, police, and - as one poster recently put it - Gestapo (!)

Let's say you are driving along and a cop decides to pull you over. They usually run your plates before the traffic stop - at that point (1) what do they know about you?

(2) Now, the cop has your driver's license (or maybe it is a drivers' license, I dunno...). He takes it back to his cruiser and plugs in the #. At this point, what does he know about you?

I assume they know if you own the car, are a wanted felon, and etc.

But do they know your entire driving record?

But it appears that the local city cops also see your entire in-state driving record. I once got pulled over and was not given a ticket b/c: "Have you EVER had a ticket?" So I then started with the 1960s (I had a GTO and yeh it was a freakin' magnet), then I recalled going down a mountain pass about 2 hours from here right after the 55 limit went into effect, and... he interrupted me then and said "it would be a shame to mess up that record, wouldn't it?" I agreed and apologized again if I was speeding, etc. etc. So, I think the guy was impressed and decided to keep my record clean.

Do they know if you were ever arrested - say for a misdemeanor? Even if you were not convicted?

Do they know if you have filed complaints about the police dept.?

Do they know if you have filed complaints about other people WITH the police dept.?

Do they know if some other police dept. stopped you while driving and did not issue a ticket, just a written warning?

Do they know if some other police dept. stopped you while driving and did not issue a ticket or a warning - just ran your info, had a talk and let you go?