Is it legal for cops to put political bumper stickers on their cars?

Question

I saw a police car with an OBAMA-2008 bumper sticker. I don't know why, but I thought it was inappropriate.

Answer 1

Definitely not illegal, but I would think it would be against departmental policy. Voicing opinions while on duty can result in the public thinking an individual's opinion is shared by the whole department, and that is frowned upon.

It may be that no one at the department has noticed it yet... or, it could have been placed there by a citizen or coworker as a practical joke.

Answer 2

It might be against the department policy. If they have a specific "non-endorsement" policy, then it might be, but if it was on a prowler, I'm willing to bet that there's no non endorsement policy

Answer 3

Every agency has policies regarding stickers on their vehicles.  Normally, all non law enforcement related stickers are not allowed.  The agency I work for doesn't ban stickers but makes the stipulation that is must not be offensive, degrading, etc.  My agency issues vehicles to all Deputies for take home purposes.  I do have stickers on my vehicle, SWAT sticker and United States Marine Corps stickers.  I consider it "personalizing my office".

If you were offended then contact the agency who's vehicle you saw it on and ask to speak to a supervisor.  The sticker maybe allowed.

Answer 4

It's not against the law but it would be against policy.  I'm willing to bet someone (besides the Officer) probably stuck it on there.  There aren't many of us who are going to vote for that clown.  It is generally against Policy to endorse any political candidate while on the clock.

We can have bumper stickers on our personal cars.

Answer 5

Depends on the department. With most, it is against policy, but not against the law.

Answer 6

Is it illegal?, no, it's not illegal.  However, it is usually a violation of departmental policy.  The police department usually does not allow its officers, in any official capacity, to publicly endorse or support a political candidate.

Answer 7

That is all based on dept. policy, and if you don't like it, call the dept. and request to talk to a Sgt. or patrol supervisor.

Answer 8

Since th police car is paid for by tax payer monies...the vehicle should be taken care of appropriately..and since the sticker is not needed for the proper function of the vehicle..I would say the person who put it on should be charged with defacing public property or vandalism.

File a complaint.

Answer 9

It would be improper, if not illegal, to use a vehicle owned by the governmental agency to display ANY political stickers.

If you did in fact see it, call your local news media. They'd love that story.

Unless someone just put in on the car for a joke, that's not funny.

And, I don't know of ANY cops who would support Obama.