I did a search and found a thread very similar that Palmetto Bug posted however mine is a slight bit different. I was driving on Lockwood Drive two nights ago in Charleston city where I was pulled over. I was pulled over because the officer "assumed" I was speeding because he said that he clocked the car next to me and I had passed him. I wont incriminate myself, and I honestly do not know how fast I was going. But it may easily have been over 35mph. When pulled over, I turn on my hazard lights, turn on all lights inside the car, tell all passengers to place their hand on their knees and do not move unless you are told to by me. He approached the car and said "Do know why I pulled you over" I said no officer I do not. He told me that I passed the car he clocked with radar and that I passed him. He then asked me if I had any weapons in the car. I told him yes there is a loaded handgun in the center console, however I have my CWP. He then asked me if he could remove my weapon take possession of it, and run the serial number. My response was "No sir, I do not believe you are allowed to do that." (In a very respectful and calm manner) He then told me that it is standard protocol to check any weapon and take possession of it during the traffic stop even if I have you are a CWP holder. My father was in law enforcement for over 25 years, and we now own a private security and investigations company... I understand the the officer wants to feel as safe as possible, so I told him that if it would make him feel better he could, because I have nothing to hide. (I know this is probably where I went wrong by giving him permission) He then asked me to step out of the vehicle and he would remove the weapon. He did, ran the serial number for about 20 minutes and called for backup which is understandable. Then brought the weapon back, asked me to step out once again, and put the weapon back and handed me the magazine. We then discussed the matter further because I simply questioned why this all was necessary if I have my CWP and two SLED cards. His response was that it is standard protocol during a traffic stop. I told him very nicely that I was going to look into this matter further and call his supervisor because I feel that others who may get pulled over with a weapon and CWP don't want to deal with this if he is in the wrong. I then got back in my truck and left with a warning for speeding. If you could please clarify it would be helpful. Thank you for your time.
My question is: If I have a license from the state that says I received a thorough background check to possess a weapon, and technically I had not done anything wrong, why is this necessary? My CWP instructor was very upset when I called him on phone because he stated that they do not have the right to take my weapon if I am a law abiding citizen and not a person of suspicion. My instructor also said that I should have left my hands on the wheel and very calmly asked him to call his supervisor and have him come inform me of the law that would allow them to take possession of my weapon and why.
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