Several recent confrontations between Chinese residents of Sunset Park and police officers

Several recent confrontations between Chinese residents of Sunset Park and police officers – including some that became violent — led Sing Tao Daily to publish this category_ide for readers, explaining their rights in police interactions and how to behave prudently and safely when confronted by officers. The article, which is not available online, is translated from Chinese below.

In the past months, several residents in Sunset Park have gotten into confrontations with the police over tickets. In response, the police department’s community relations office printed out flyers explaining how to behave appropriately when approached by police officers.

Last week, a Chinese store owner was questioned by officers after they spotted her selling items on the sidewalk. They attempted to handcuff her, but she refused because she felt intimidated and did not speak any English. Following the miscommunication, the authorities used force to arrest her. The owner was released later that evening.

In another case, a resident refused to accept a ticket for double parking on the morning of March 21. He proceeded to spit at the officer who handed him the ticket, and the confrontation quickly escalated. About 10 police cruisers arrived at the scene, and two Chinese teenagers who were involved in the scuffle were arrested.

A similar incident occurred at the same location nearly a month before. A Chinese driver was angry at a $115 parking ticket he had received and shouted at several officers. He attempted to crash into a police cruiser and escape the scene, but he was later arrested and charged with disorderly conduct and interfering with law enforcement. He was also ordered to pay the fine he had received.

Based on these three cases, it is evident that Chinese residents need to understand the laws. In order to protect their rights, they must know how to behave when confronted by the police.

* If approached by the authorities, you must remain calm and place your hands where the officers can see them.

* You should not resist arrest, but you have the right to ask for the names and badge numbers of the officers involved.

* After you have been arrested, you have the right to remain silent and ask for legal representation.

* If you are a witness to or a victim of a crime, the police cannot ask for your immigration status.

* If the police act inappropriately, you should record the officers’ information and report your complaint to the Civilian Complaint Review Board.

By Sing Tao Daily | Sing Tao Daily
Translated by Connie Yik Kong