Does Atlanta’s new police policy on signing tickets go against state law?
Atlanta Police clarify ticket signing policy
A challenge to how Atlanta police handle traffic stops may simply their encounters with the public moving forward. The clarification on the Atlanta Police Department's ticket signing policy comes after the unexpected and tragic death of Johnny Hollman who was tased by an Atlanta officer. It began with the customary request from the officer to sign a citation.
ATLANTA - The unexpected and tragic death of a motorist may help to clarify how police officers in Atlanta should handle traffic stops.
Johnny Hollman was stunned by an officer using a Taser. He died not long after, likely from multiple factors, according to the Fulton County Medical Examiner.
A confrontation with that patrolman began with a customary request to receive and sign a citation.
Atlanta Chief Darin Schierbaum appeared at the city council public safety meeting.
Michael Bond asked about a change directed by Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens.
"In a situation where a citation is called for, the citizen can refuse to sign that ticket," Schierbaum said.
Not included in such a scenario, are more serious incidents like a DUI.
Does the change by the city of Atlanta run counter to state law?
Johnny Hollman (Supplied)
Not according to attorney Jackie Patterson, who is a former police officer and former judge.
Patterson said the state law is "permissive" in that an agency may take a motorist to jail for declining to sign a citation.
"There has been confusion for many years," said Patterson, the Fly Lawyer. "You are not admitting guilt when you sign the citation. You are acknowledging that you have received it and can still come to court and defend yourself."