APB: Criminals are Usually Deceptive and Tricky
Bourgeoning criminals will do just about anything to pull the wool over the eyes of law enforcement and the public.
Those involved in drug trafficking are always looking for ways to conceal contraband from police. Most of their tricks are well known, but it’s still good to keep those methods in mind when policing.
One telltale sign is when the occupant of a vehicle has more than one cell phone, according to stonewalltactical.blogspot.com. Often, people will carry multiple cell phones that seem to be ringing at once. They could have a personal cell phone, as well as a cell phone given to them from the origin of a load, and a cell phone from the contact at the contraband’s destination for monitoring their location. Law enforcement officers should see this as a possible indicator and question the suspect in detail as to why they have multiple phones and use their answers to build reasonable suspicion.
Driving Under the Speed Limit
An easy pre-stop indicator is those who drive under the speed limit. Drug traffickers are incredibly paranoid, and that makes them do stupid things such as drive 10-15 miles under the speed limit. Drug haulers will generally stay in the slow lane as well.
Older Model Cars
While older cars are not uncommon on highways, those late-model vehicles in immaculate condition are rare. According to the website, older cars are often used to transport drugs. However, what sets them apart is that they are mechanically well kept while sporting new tires and cleaned to blend in with the average citizen’s vehicle. While that in itself is not enough to be a sign of drug trafficking, paying attention to multiple indicators can increase the chance of finding the proverbial mother load.
Conflicting Stories
Finally, he said she said. Conflicting stories that passengers give as to the purpose and destination of their interstate travel can be a red flag. Developing these conflicting stories is paramount in your investigation. Getting the suspects to give you intricate details that contradict each other not only is an indicator, but also a great tool in reasonable suspicion.
Has your agency seen anything like this? Maybe a disguised weapon or something hidden in plain sight, such as a book with a center portion hollowed out to hide drugs or other contraband. Or perhaps you have seen a juice box where the contents have been replaced with alcohol or other substances added to cause impairment.
If your agency has seen something along those lines, and you are willing to share it, we would like to speak with you. Share it on DOCJT’s social media platforms or contact Michael Moore.
