I've been stopped twice, both times in Carrollton.HankHardisty wrote:I think it would be better just to hand over both DL and CHL and not to mention the word "weapon", that might provoke a tense response.
When asked for ID, I gave the officer my license and CHL plus my proof of insurance.
He handed the CHL back and said "Thanks" or "I don't need this anymore"...nothing else.
No questions about where my pistol was located or anything.
Stop proceeded and I was on my way.
If the officer knows the law (and I expect them to), they understand getting the CHL at the first opportunity indicates the presence of a concealed handgun and a valid license holder. If they want more information, they can ask.
GC §411.205. REQUIREMENT TO DISPLAY LICENSE. (a) If a license
holder is carrying a handgun on or about the license holder's person when
a magistrate or a peace officer demands that the license holder display
identification, the license holder shall display both the license holder's
driver's license or identification certificate issued by the department and
the license holder's handgun license.
The law doesn't say I have to tell him anything other than display of the license.
I'm sure some conversations will proceed from there to more specific information on location.
If you have to reach near the weapon while getting further information requested by the officer, then letting them know where the weapon is located is a really go idea. No need to get anyone jumpy at the wrong time.
I understand traffic stops are one of the most dangerous activities to conduct. No such thing as "routine".
Many times, your demeanor sets the tone for the entire stop; good or bad.
Just my $0.02.
LabRat