Police

Rhoda Mead
Copyright 2002

I was truly horrified when I learned a little about the problems the hearing impaired have when in a stressful situation; dealing with law enforcement officers. Sigh, just the same as when I have been seriously ill, I need to stay calm and have good judgment. Doesn't happen easily, but maybe preparedness can help a bit.

Notes from a SHHH Workshop presented in June, 2002, by Randy Melton, http://www.policeanddeafness.com/,

In general, Law Enforcement officers, including Firefighters and Emergency Medical Technicians get NO training in recognizing or working with the deaf or hearing impaired. We need to communicate our individual needs to them. Unfortunately, much of what we do to hear better is counterproductive with police officers and can get us in serious difficulties.

1. Immediately tell an officer when you do not understand an order. Never bluff. Police are used to giving orders and having them obeyed instantly. Cops will think you are stalling for time while an accomplice arrives or while figuring out a way of escape. Because you are in a stressful situation you are less likely than usual to comprehend a direct order.
   
   
2. Never touch an officer when he/she is on the scene. Officers are trained to never let anyone approach them. Hearing impaired people inch closer to hear better; this could lead to arrest. Don't get in an officer's space.
   
   
3. If you are stopped for a traffic violation, do not expect an interpreter. For all other situations, you are entitled to one; you will have to go to a Police Station and wait for one.
   
   
4. If you are handcuffed, it will always be with hands behind your back. Officers have been attacked when handcuffed in front. Communication is at an end.
   
   
5. An Assistive Listening Device such as a loop system or FM might be seen as threatening. Always explain and wait before proffering one. You are entitled to record what is being said, so assistive devices may be seen as threatening but legal.
   
   
6. If you are stopped while driving, pull to the right shoulder or a safer place. Turn on dome light at night. Keep your hands on the wheel. Do NOT get out of your vehicle unless you are instructed to do so. Again, tell officer about your hearing problem immediately.
   
   
7. Find out who you are dealing with; which law enforcement agency, which department, the name and badge number of the person you are dealing with.
   
   
8. Plan ahead. Learn your rights under ADA, and politely and firmly stand up for yourself. Make a Visor Card that you rubber band to your visor so it shows when you flip it down:
   I Am Hearing Impaired
   My name is ______
   I need ( whatever you need) to understand you.

What will you do if it is dark and raining, and you are outside your vehicle?
Put an identification as hearing impaired or deaf on and/or in your wallet.

(I am going to get a Pet ID at Petco, to put on my key chain. It holds more info than a medic alert bracelet, and goes with me always.)

Remember, do not attempt to get close to a law enforcement officer or expect the officer to know anything about your hearing disability. Do not attempt, in a tense situation, to teach law enforcement officers how to help you understand them. They will be expecting instant obedience of a direct order, and you will not only be not obeying the person with a gun, but using what might be perceived as delaying tactics. Necessary for us, but tense. Just one more aspect of being hearing impaired or deaf.

NEXT

BACK to Table of Contents