Can I refuse to tell the police my name?

You DO NOT have to give your name and address unless the officer points out an offence he / she suspects you have committed. However, not providing your details may lead to you being detained for longer.

Why do cops ask for name and address?

They can tell you they are looking for some one and you look like them, if you still say no. They will most likely hold you until they can get a lawyer or identify you. But lets say that you answer them you tell them. And they have a reason to be asking or your in a place that requires you identify yourself.

Can police take your name and address?

You do not have to give your name and address unless under a specific legal obligation (Rice v Connolly 1966). Refusal to give your name and address cannot amount to obstructing the police in the course of their duty under s89(2) of the Police Act 1996 but giving a false name and address can.

Can I refuse to give my name and address to police?

The police must tell you why they want your details. If they don’t give you a reason, you should ask for it. It is an offence to refuse to give police your name and address or to give police a false name and address if they have a lawful reason to ask you for your details.

Is it a crime to give a false name to police?

In fact, if you are arrested, it is a crime to refuse to give your name. And you CANNOT give a false name under any circumstances. If you are detained or are a witness, it is a crime to give a false name, address, or date of birth.

Can a police officer ask for ID without reason?

Yes, Police Officers in the USA have the capacity of asking for an Identification. And, according to United States Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, you have the right to refuse to give it to them unless they can show “reasonable” Probable Cause to ask you for it.

How do you ask a police officer for their details?

If a police officer asks you for your name and address, you have a right to ask them for their details. The police officer does not have to give you their details automatically. Ask for their name, their rank and the police station where they work. You can also ask for these details in writing.