On Wednesday, January 21, 2009, the Carroll County Sheriff's Office received an
email that was beginning to circulate about a women being cut-off by a
un-marked silver Dodge Charger with blue lights on the tag and dash. The email
also indicated that she had contacted 911 about the incident.
As the email began to circulate, several emails we sent through the Sheriff’s
Office website questioning the validity of the complaint. The initial inquires
did not validate the email, however further investigation showed that the
complainant had actually called the administrative phone lines of the Carroll
County Sheriff's Office. In her complaint she told of being cut-off and
questioned if it was a law enforcement car since it did not have a government
tag, but had blue lights on the dash and the back tag area.
Since this email began to circulate at least one additional complaint has
surfaced concerning a silver or gray Charger with flashing blue lights. Both of
the complaints are being investigated further by the Carroll County Sheriff's
Office and the Carrollton Police Department.
While the Sheriff’s Office and Police Department do utilize unmarked cars
equipped with blue lights, these vehicles are not used for primary traffic
enforcement, but rather for emergency response to other crimes in progress.
If you are approached by an unmarked car with blue lights it should also have
an audible siren. It will have more than one light on the dash, usually in the
grill, and they will be brighter than some small aftermarket type lights. Most
will simply need you to yield right of way.
If an unmarked car is attempting to stop you and you feel unsure, slow your
speed, place your emergency flashers on and pull into a well lighted area with
people. If you are in a rural environment you may use your cell phone to call
911 to verify. The main point is to slow down and make your intent to comply by
turning on your flashers. If an unmarked car is attempting to make a stop, a
marked unit will be dispatched to the location.
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