What is the first step in the vehicle stop sequence?

Determining objectives and authority for the stop is the first crucial step in the vehicle stop sequence. This step ensures that the officer has a clear understanding of the purpose behind the stop as well as the legal authority to conduct it. Objectives may include enforcement of traffic laws or addressing specific suspicious behavior, while authority pertains to the legal grounds that justifies the stop, such as probable cause or reasonable suspicion.

Having well-defined objectives allows officers to be focused and prepared, ensuring that they do not engage in unnecessary confrontations or legal disputes. It also supports the overall accountability and integrity of law enforcement actions. This foundational understanding is essential before proceeding with any planning or tactical execution. Once objectives and authority are established, officers can then move on to other aspects of the stop, such as planning tactics and notifying dispatch, which are secondary to establishing the reasons and legal basis for stopping the vehicle.