DUI Checkpoint – Trooper Attempts to Open Door
Ashton Woolen shared this post via CopBlock.org’s submit page.
February 20, 2014
Post 28 – Jasper Counties: Cherokee, Pickens
Ph: 706-692-4835
Troop Commander: Capt. E. Joe Hamby
130 State Route 20
Spur Cartersville, GA 30120
Ph: 770-387-4053 and 4003
February 20, 2014 in Woodstock, Georgia: At approximately 10:00 PM, an old work friend messaged me explaining that she knew a DUI checkpoint was nearby. I looked up the location, grabbed my two GoPro Hero 3s, and headed to seek out the checkpoint. The speed limit was 35 on the approaching road so I was going slowly, but as I finished going up a hill, I found myself at a 4-way stop. This 4-way stop was also the checkpoint. There were no signs and no place to turn around. I cracked my window about four inches as I rolled to a stop.
Trooper#1 asked how I was doing to which I responded, “I’m doing good, how ’bout yourself?” He then proceeded to tap my window and told me to roll my window down. I told him I was comfortable where it was. He then pushed it down another couple inches. At that point, only eight seconds after being stopped, Trooper#2 attempted to open my door, very hard. Trooper#2 then told me to, “Get out of the car, dude.” I ignored his demand as Trooper#1 asked for my license which I handed him. Trooper#1 then walked away and said, “You’ll get this (my license) back when you roll your window down. Then, Trooper#2 tried to say that they can’t hear well, even though my GoPro in a waterproof case can pick up their voices perfectly fine when they are in front of my car.
They then notice I have a dash cam and proceed to detain me for having “almost illegal tires.” I pulled into secondary where they told me to test all my lights for a ‘vehicle inspection.’ I denied doing it once, then complied, for I did not know the legalities of vehicle inspections. After realizing there was nothing wrong with my car for them to cite me with anything, they attempted to get me out of the car again, but this time to check my tire ‘for my own safety.’ I declined and they began asking me loaded questions and trying to get me upset by saying that I am afraid of the dark. Then they left me to sit for 8 minutes before Trooper#1 came back to return my license.
He stuck it in my window but would not let go when I tried to grab it. He then threatened me that if he ever sees my car on the road again, he’s going to pull me over. He then brought up a speeding ticket from three years ago and said that was the reason I was scared to get out.
Because of my previous occurrence with GSP, Georgia State Patrol, I thought I was not going to have any problems and that they would be professional. Boy was I wrong. Needless to say, I am very disappointed in the illegal and immature actions of these troopers.
GSP Mission Statement:
The mission of the Georgia Department of Public Safety is to work cooperatively with all levels of government to provide a safe environment for residents and visitors to our state. Although focused primarily on the enforcement of traffic laws and investigation of traffic crashes, the Department of Public Safety will support the efforts of all public safety agencies to reduce crime, apprehend those who commit them, and respond to natural and man-made disasters. In all of our endeavors, DPS personnel will remain committed to following our core beliefs of trust, fortitude, compassion and professionalism.
Trust
Trust is our hallmark and foundation. Our word is our bond. Truthfulness is what the public expects from us and what we demand of ourselves. We are committed to the highest ethical standards and highest level of performance beyond reproach.
Fortitude
We are committed to persevere through sacrifice and adversity to do the right thing, even at personal cost. In the tradition of those who preceded us, we are confident in our ability to fairly enforce all laws, to protect life and property, and to be accountable for our actions.
Compassion
We have the courage and wisdom to be fair. We are sensitive to the needs of others and are committed to treat all with dignity and respect.
Professionalism
As an elite and diverse team of highly trained, motivated men and women, we are committed to providing effective, efficient, and courteous service. We pledge to set innovative standards for others to follow.
