NCJ Number
180956
Date Published
February 2000
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This handbook reviews two subjects that may be part of any law enforcement officer’s daily responsibilities: motor vehicle checkpoints and stress management.
Abstract
The article on motor vehicle checkpoints concerns limitations on police procedures. It includes a case study involving the question of whether police videotaping of motorcyclists and their driver’s licenses at the entrance to a charity motorcycle rally is lawful. It reviews the law of the case and provides questions for study and discussion, relevant court decisions and legal commentary. A section on stress management offers constructive ways for law enforcement personnel to cope with the stress of the job. Whether the officer uses a hobby, physical exercise or simply some time to wind down before going home, some form of stress relief is important to both the officer and family members. The article describes the many ways that stress can manifest itself, the usefulness of sharing thoughts with family and colleagues and the importance of seeking help for oneself and one’s family in order to alleviate stressful situations and unhealthy responses.