Originally Posted by
Gray
I agree with the above. Not to belittle the importance of and FFDO, but the scope of their authority as a Federal OFFICER is limited to theor duties when operating the flight.
And if anyone thinks that citizens have the right to make traffic stops AT GUNPOINT just because you've seen a vehicle swerving, is dead wrong, retarded, or both. Putting yourself in a situation like Clay did is incredibly wreckless behavior. What should an average citizen or even an FFDO do in this situation? Humm... Maybe get the plate number, follow the car, and call the police to report what's going on if you really think the driver is placing others in immediate danger.
If anyone thinks that what this guy did was reasonable and prudent at the time, you need to grow up. Stop watching Hollywood cop shows and please don't ever carry a firearm.
Absolutely true. Mike374's concept of a "citizen's arrest" is totally out to lunch.
The rules vary by state (look yours up if you plan on exercising said authority) but generally you can only make a citizens arrest in the case of felony, and I believe in some states only if life or limb is in danger. A citizen's arrest for a traffic violation would more likely turn out to be assault, unlawful detention, maybe kidnapping. And if you shoot someone in some states you are guilty until proven innocent...