Legal Question in Traffic Law in Missouri

Kansas City Ordinance 70-73, Failure to comply with an officer instruction

''Failed to comply with the lawful order of a police officer by refusing to move illegally parked vehicles and running from the police when told to come talk...'' I'm a valet at a district in downtown Kansas City. I was, at the time the officer asked me to stop, running to get a car that had been waiting for quite some time. It was a special instruction from my manager and I felt like the officer was even possibly mistaking me for someone else because I had not been at that location all night, so I kept running when told to stop. They were waiting when I arrived with the car, I then politely stepped to the sidewalk and tried answering his question of, ''Who is in charge here?'' with my managers name. He told me that was the wrong answer, that he was in charge, and then paused for about 20 seconds. I said, ''Do you have a point?'', he then handcuffed me... The sidewalk at the Power & Light District where I work is deemed as private property. My question is, did this officer have the right to arrest me for something that was not exactly willfully refused, and overall I was doing it on private property? What line of action would be recommended. Thank you for any help you can provide.


Asked on 6/22/08, 4:31 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
James Manning James Manning, PC

Re: Kansas City Ordinance 70-73, Failure to comply with an officer instruction

This is a strange incident. I recommend that you consult with an attorney to help you get this matter resolved. Otherwise, this is something that could go on your record. I have helped another person who received a somewhat strang citation in the P&L District. Since it is a new area, I think there have been a few growing pains as far as administering parking spaces and the like. Your citation may be something that could be dismissed, especially, if you in fact just doing your job. I would have to review the citation and speak to the prosecutor to be sure. Please let me know if I can be of assistance to you.

Thanks,

James

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Answered on 6/22/08, 7:02 pm


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