What to Do When You Find a Gun in Your Patrol Car

When you're out there in the field, every moment counts. Imagine you’ve just arrested someone for OWI (Operating While Intoxicated). Later, as you settle back into your patrol vehicle, you spot something alarming: a small gun tucked into the back seat. Panic fluttering in your stomach? Totally normal. But here's the thing—you’ve got to think clearly and act quickly. So, what’s your next move?

Let’s break it down. You might think, “Hey, I can apply it to the suspect since my car was clean before the arrest.” But hold on just a second. This isn’t just about getting a hunch right; it’s about following protocol, keeping everyone safe, and sometimes yes, even knowing when to call for backup.

The Right Move: Request Assistance

Your best bet? Request assistance from other officers. When it comes to law enforcement, safety isn’t negotiable. Handling a weapon—especially when you didn’t expect it to be there—can escalate into a dangerous situation quicker than you can say “gun control.” You need backup.

Think about it. Other officers can come in, help secure that firearm, and follow the correct procedures. Keeping a cool head while verifying whether the gun belongs to the suspect, or is somehow tied to the incident, keeps things orderly and safe.

Why Safety is Key

One of the core tenets in law enforcement is prioritizing safety. Not just your safety, but the safety of everyone involved, including the suspect. How chaotic could things get if you suddenly decided to act on instinct, thinking you can handle it solo? Every department has protocols in place for these scenarios, guiding officers through the correct steps to handle evidence and potential threats.

Let’s face it—nothing good comes from taking shortcuts with firearms. Failing to adhere to these procedures can lead to unintended complications, and trust me, the last thing anybody wants is a report with red flags flying all over it.

What Could Go Wrong?

Let's rewind and consider the other options you might be tempted to take. If you think it's not probable cause to apply the weapon to the suspect, or you’re acting on a gut feeling because the suspect “looks like he’d have a gun,” you're not just risking your position; you're creating a volatile situation. Would you feel comfortable being in a position where a gun is involved and the proper safety measures weren’t followed? Probably not!

And while it’s important to trust your instincts, you must also recognize the limits of those instincts—especially when additional resources are available. Remember, teamwork is essential. Rely on your fellow officers. They’re trained, skilled, and can bring the right expertise into a tricky situation.

The Bottom Line

Handling firearms isn’t just a job; it’s a responsibility. Your actions must reflect a commitment to safety and protocol. So, if you find yourself facing this scenario, don’t hesitate to call for help. It’s a mantra worth repeating: it’s better to be safe than sorry. Working together not only enhances safety but also ensures that proper procedures are followed—strengthening the integrity of the entire law enforcement process.

In the ever-evolving landscape of law enforcement, it’s essential to stay informed, prepared, and willing to lean on lessons from each encounter. The MCOLES State Licensing Exam will no doubt test your knowledge on these vital protocols. So, keep these principles in mind, and you’ll find yourself ready for whatever comes next on the road. Stay vigilant, stay safe!