Sheriff Ewing Interview / Inform CCW when pulled over?

Published on January 28, 2015
Duration: 8:49

Sheriff Greg Ewing of Vio County, Indiana, clarifies that while not legally obligated, informing an officer of a concealed firearm during a traffic stop is a courtesy that can ease the officer's apprehension. He advises against displaying the firearm and emphasizes keeping it secured. The interview also touches on general traffic stop safety, such as rolling down windows and turning on dome lights at night to improve officer visibility.

Quick Summary

In Indiana, you are not legally required to inform a law enforcement officer about your concealed firearm during a traffic stop. However, Sheriff Greg Ewing advises that doing so is a courteous gesture that can help alleviate officer apprehension, provided the firearm remains secured and is not displayed.

Chapters

  1. 00:06Introduction
  2. 00:35Guest Introduction: Sheriff Greg Ewing
  3. 01:00Officer Concerns During Traffic Stops
  4. 02:23Vio County Sheriff's Department Overview
  5. 03:04What is a Reserve Deputy?
  6. 04:00Traffic Stop Etiquette: Visibility
  7. 04:29Do You Need to Inform About CCW in Indiana?
  8. 05:08Methods of Informing Officers
  9. 05:39Officer's Response to Firearm Notification
  10. 06:21Pepper Spray and Stun Guns in Indiana
  11. 06:43Obligation to Notify Officer
  12. 07:07Common Practice vs. Legal Obligation
  13. 07:32Summary: Indiana CCW Notification Law
  14. 07:54What NOT to Do with Your Firearm
  15. 08:07Final Safety and Courtesy Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to tell an officer I have a CCW in Indiana?

In Indiana, you are not legally obligated to inform an officer that you are carrying a concealed firearm during a traffic stop. However, Sheriff Ewing suggests it's a courteous gesture that can ease the officer's apprehension and is generally appreciated.

What is the best way to handle a traffic stop if I am legally carrying a firearm?

If you choose to inform the officer, do so calmly and state that you have a permit and your firearm is secured. Never display the firearm or attempt to hand it to the officer. Keep your hands visible and follow the officer's instructions.

Are pepper spray or stun guns regulated in Indiana?

According to Sheriff Ewing, Indiana does not require a specific permit to carry pepper spray or a stun gun. These items are generally permissible without additional licensing.

What can I do to make a traffic stop safer for the officer?

To improve officer safety and comfort during a traffic stop, especially at night or with tinted windows, consider turning on your interior dome light or rolling down your windows. This allows the officer to see inside the vehicle more clearly.

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