This mini guide is here to help you get a basic understanding of what to and what not to do while copwatching. People I cannot stress enough that we do not want copwatch to look bad to anyone. We want this to be a respected service so that we can continue it for many years to come, and only grow stronger! If you feel you cannot deal with these situation in a mature professional manner, We ask of you to please not use the CopWatch name. (Section Under Construction)

WHAT TO DO 

When first approaching the scene:

  • Make it clear that you are not there interfere, you are only there to observe, and document the incident.
  • Make sure your hands are visible.
  • Make sure you tools are ready to used, or that they are readily accessible.
What to do one on the scene:
  • Assess the situation, figure out what is happening, and plan your course of action. Do not run head on into a situation thinking you will be welcomed, or that they will treat you with respect.
  • Once the situation is clear to you, make sure you have video or pictures of what the police are doing.
  • Get badge numbers and names of all police involved in the incident, this so important for legal reasons.
  • Try and get the person(s) being detained to give you there name(s), this will help when looking for the case to give evidence.
  • Write a very detailed account of what happened including witness statements. Get the contact info of the witnesses in case they have other video or photo they can provide to you later on.
What to do after the incident:
  • If the person has been released, get a video, and/or written statement from them of what happaned.
  • Exchange information with the person so that you can give them copies of the evidence you have for their case.
  • Encourage them to take legal action if they feel the police officer went above the law, or infringed on their rights.
  • Send the evidence to the police department anyways, just to let them know that the people are watching.
  • When leaving remember not to do anything illegal, jaywalking, getting into your car without a seat belt. Cops will look for any reason to detain you after your watch.

WHAT NOT TO DO 

When first approaching the scene:

  • Do not carry weapons, ride skateboards, smoke, swear, etc. Basically do not make yourself an easy target for the police.
  • Do not anger the police by yelling at them right away, its recommended not to yell at all, but if needed please speak in a professional manner. Sometimes forceful tones will be needed for them to see your point.
  • Do not interfere, keep your fair distance or else this can lead to you being arrested for obstructing justice.
When on the scene:
  • Do not try and intimidate police through violent threats, instead say things such as "this evidence will be used against you officer" or "please relax officer"
  • Do not police the police. If they ask you to step on the sidewalk, step on the side walk. If they tell you to move alone the sidewalk, and go away, than you can tell them that you have the right to stand where you are.
  • Do not make up false stories about the person being detained.
  • Do not lie to the police.
After the incident:
  • Do not lie on your reports, or change witness statements to make the police look worse.
  • Do not tell the person who was just released to suck it up, or treat them poorly. These situations are taxing and can take a lot out of a person, instead ask them if they need any help, maybe some water, anything.
  • Do not think the situation is over, and that you can start swearing, saying your name, or do something illegal. Many undercover cops may still be present.