Traffic Cops Using More Unmarked Cars

Cops around the country are using more unmarked cars to catch speeders on the highway, USA Today reports, for one simple reason: Habitual speeders have gotten too good at spotting the marked ones. “This is not about being sneaky,” insists one North Dakota police chief. “This is about trying to change people’s habits and having them pay attention to their driving even when they don’t think a police officer is watching.”

But some are concerned that the tactic will make it easier for criminals to impersonate police officers, pulling over victims in order to rob or assault them. Several such incidents occur each year. “With a car that is not clearly marked, people are sometimes very apprehensive about pulling over,” said the president of the National Motorists Association. “Anybody can go out and buy a light … and stick it on their car.” Plus, Basil Marceaux is going to be furious.
(More police officer stories.)