Law Enforcement in the U.S.
In the U.S., there are federal, state and local law enforcement agencies that protect the public. In your community, law enforcement officers are the police or sheriff. Find out the phone number of the police station nearest you and keep it next to your telephone. Remember that police officers are there to protect you and your family from harm.
Do not be afraid to report a crime, especially if you are the victim. Some criminals take advantage of immigrants because they think you will not report the crime to the police. If you are stopped by a police officer:
- Don't be afraid. Be polite and cooperative.
- Tell the officer if you do not speak English.
- If you are in a car, don't get out of the car until the officer tells you to.
- Keep your hands where the officer can see them. Don't reach into your pockets or into other areas of the car.
