Are you detaining me? >> Are you detaining me? Is that hard to understand? How long does a Terry stop last, sir? >> Terry stop. >> What? So, what am I being detained for? >> The only thing I was doing is stopping you, getting you pulled over. So, one, you calm down and quit endangering other people's lives. >> I wasn't in danger nobody's lives. >> Every badge has responsibility, but some use it to intimidate the innocent. But what happens when higher authority comes in and puts a stop to it? >> Why are we doing this? >> Why wouldn't we? Cuz it's a security issue for us. >> Is it? >> It is. >> I don't think so. >> You're recording our property. You're recording our building. >> Sure. >> And it's a security issue for us. >> Am I being detained? >> You are. Are you looking to create a problem here for us or >> No, not at all. I'm being polite and cordial. >> These were the moments when higher authority defends the defenseless against corrupt cops. [music] We begin with what should have been a routine traffic stop. But it quickly spiraled into a tense standoff. Not between the driver and the police, but among the officers themselves, exposing corruption that forced higher authority to step in and defend the defenseless. >> I've been chewing tobacco today. >> Chebbacco. Okay. Well, who stopped the car? >> Joey. I just got a call. Y'all ask for Ala sensor. I have an Ala sensor. Whoever needs it can. >> Yeah. Just let me see it real quick. I'm going to have him blow it. >> It's not against the law to drink and drive. I mean, it's not against the law to have a beer and drive. You know what I'm saying? They want to hear that man drive over here. Deal with it. >> You know what I'm saying? Like >> on April 21st, 2024, officer Joey Lambert from the Ren Police Department in Georgia pulled over a driver reported to be swerving across the roadway. >> Hey, how you doing? >> Pretty good. >> Hey, we got a call about you all over the roadway. Then I get behind you and you was swerving a little bit. >> No, I follow him behind that trailer right there. >> You found him behind that trailer right there? >> Yeah. >> Okay. You You come over >> You come over a few times. Do you got your driver's license on it? Have you been drinking today? >> No, I've been doing Nope. I've been chewing tobacco today. >> Two on tobacco. Okay. >> Yeah. >> Where y'all headed sir? >> Did you drop your truck off? >> Where I mean where's that? >> Uh right here. [music] >> Is this your car or his car? Look at his his car. >> This one is >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> Is it mom? >> All right. What's up? >> Said he drank a beer, but he didn't m >> What started as a routine traffic stop quickly became tense as Lambert questioned the driver about his erratic driving and asked for his license. The driver remained calm, insisting he had only been chewing tobacco, not drinking, setting the stage for a standoff that would test the limits of authority and citizen rights. You say you need an alpha sensor. >> The alpha sensor is I'm going to go home. >> So, who's doing the uh DU who's doing the DUI? >> One of y'all make it up. >> Okay. Well, who stopped the car? >> Joey is >> Yeah. >> Oh, cuz y'all asked for the sensor. I'm like, I thought y'all already did everything testing and stuff. >> Hey. Huh? Hey, I'm not I'm not unless y'all want to work at I'm not arresting nobody >> because I'm not doing anything. Still got me on nights. >> So, unless y'all want to work at DUI. If not, I'm going to have somebody come pick them up. >> You stop the car. >> I do. >> Is your I I got I got I got call for your body camera upside down. >> Yeah. done with this. >> But yeah, um yeah. Um I just got called. Y'all ask for alpha sensor. I have an alpha sensor. Whoever needs it can Yeah. Just let me see it real quick. I'm going to just have them blow into it. >> Yeah. Yeah. I mean, if he don't want to blow into it, you know, he don't have to. You know that it's not against it's not against the law to drink and drive. I mean it's not against the law to have a beer and drive. You know what I'm saying? >> Yeah. We got to see if he can drive >> and and how can you prove that? I I mean I have the most training right now on scene. >> Then you need >> you didn't act like it then. >> I am acting like that. I'm telling you. >> What are you talking about? >> As the stop unfolded, officers Cannon and Brown arrived. Cannon immediately challenged the traffic stop, arguing a single beer wasn't a crime. The officers clashed over the Alco sensor test. Lambert pushing for safety. Canon defending the driver's rights until [music] just as tension peaked, the unexpected happened. >> I'm tell I'm telling >> Okay. Well, here deal with it. >> No, I'm saying like >> you deal with it. You got it. >> If it'll help, I could take that. >> Come on. I don't know what he feels about. Come on. >> So, what was unsafe about him? >> Friends 102 central. I'm in service. Turn over to whoever. >> Lambert stepped away, leaving Canon and Sergeant Brown to handle the driver and his vehicle. The situation now required careful handling to prevent it from spiraling further. >> Hey sir, my name is Officer K. I work for Ranch Police Department. What happened today? >> I don't know. >> I got pulled over. >> You got pulled over? Okay. By him? >> I don't know. By him or who? >> Okay. Okay. All right. How much you had to drink then? >> I had one beer a day. >> Okay. And that's it. >> Okay. >> Now, I know my blood pressure is up. >> Okay. Well, what we want to do is we just want to check it. Hold. >> All right. It's your choice. Do you want to blow on this? Well, I I got to see right now. I mean, you're looking functional to me. Is it's not like that. I I don't see nothing. I didn't even stop you. Like, this is this is completely uh Yeah. I I I I didn't stop I I didn't stop you, >> but they said I was swerving all over the road. Okay, look. Bottom line is we just want you to blow in this. That way we can see if you uh are able to drive. >> Good thing Brown and >> I'm not doing that. >> Okay. And that's his choice. I'm not I don't know who car I brought him to the shop. Take the truck to the shop. >> Hey, Sergeant Brown. That's his choice. I got to prove that he's less safe. I can't. It's against I I violate his fifth amendment right. >> No, he was proved less safe when he was crossing that line. Well, crossing what? >> I did not. talk to me, please. >> He doesn't want to go on there. That's his That's his choice. Cannon and Sergeant Brown took over, speaking [music] with the driver. He admitted to one beer, but insisted he was fine. Brown suggested a breath test, which he refused. Cannon argued, Brown [music] countered, and through it all, the driver stayed calm, standing firm on his choice. Tension hung [music] thick as the officers balanced enforcement with the driver's rights. I got to visibly see what's like when I make my DUI. I can I visibly see abnormal behavior. >> We're not going to hold courtside road. One, two, we're not going to argue with each other in front of people. >> Mhm. >> We're here to back one another up. Okay. >> And Joey left. >> Okay. Well, I can't help what Joey did. Now it's me and you here. >> Okay. >> So, we're going to do what's got to be done. >> Okay. >> Right now, we looking like complete idiots to them. Okay. >> Okay. So, so, so, so, so what do you want me to do? >> If he Joey, if Joey stop, Joe don't want to do nothing with it, that's fine. He don't want to blow on that, that's fine. But he's not driving that car away from him. >> I can't >> due to his driving. >> I can't be part of that cuz that's unlawful. >> Well, you go do what you're going to do. I'll take care of you. >> Okay. Oh my god. This is Okay. This where Here goes. based on his driving. We got a call that he was all over the road. >> Hey, one beer. Yeah. >> Okay, sir. He admitted he's been drinking. >> Yes, sir. >> All right. The officer that stopped him already said he wasn't going to pursue no DUI with >> unlock him up. But what we want to do is check him and see if he was okay to drive. Yes, sir. >> But since he refused to let us check him, then um I need somebody to drive that vehicle. But what I can do, I can let him get in with me. I'm going to go right down to the laws and unload my truck. I'll come back and load this one up and take it back to Bart. >> Okay. Cuz I don't want him getting hurt and I don't want him hurting nobody else. >> Cuz I mean cuz he he was doing me a favor cuz I mean I don't have a vehicle at the time. >> See, it could just be his blood pressure. We don't know. >> Yes, sir. I'm >> Well, like like I said, sugar could be sugar out of whack. We don't know. But I just don't want him getting hurt. >> Okay. Well, if it's okay, we'll just leave this here that truck down the Lord. Okay. >> And we'll come back and load this one up and I'll just drive both of them back. Well, I said I ain't telling you you got to do that. I'm just asking. >> I would rather do that cuz I appreciate y'all for what y'all doing for me. >> Cuz I don't want him getting hurt. Yes, sir. Okay. >> Yes, sir. >> That's what we'll do. I'm going to leave the truck right here and we going to go on down there and unload it. Okay. >> I appreciate y'all. Thank y'all. >> Have a good day, sir. >> Brown blocked the driver from taking the car while Canon refused to back anything unlawful. The passenger stepped in to drive it home, keeping the situation from spiraling and letting the officers end the stop safely. In the end, no DUI arrest was made. Lambert got a C minus for leaving the stop. Canon a C plus for defending rights but arguing with his supervisor and the driver an A minus for staying calm, cooperating, and knowing his rights. [music] If you thought that traffic stop was intense, wait until a simple sidewalk audit nearly sparked a full standoff outside a retirement home. >> Chris, stop walking. Stop. What is going on? Why are you recording? You're upsetting the people who work here. So, stop. >> I'm going to go. >> I'm ordering you to stop. Disorderly conduct, Chris. >> Disorderly conduct. arming and disturbing the people who are >> Am I allowed to photograph on the sidewalk or No, >> I'm going to put you in handcuffs if you don't stop. >> You could put me in handcuffs. >> Okay, then stop. >> No, you could put me in handcuffs. This isn't legal. >> On July 4th, 2019, Christopher Beerstat was on the sidewalk outside the Mandota Lutheran home recording as part of a First Amendment audit. Everything seemed calm at first, but tension was building nearby. That calm didn't last long. Chris, come here. Why are you recording the nursing home? >> Chris, come here. I'm talking to you. Why are you recording the nursing home? You're upsetting the people who live here. Chris, stop walking. Stop. What is going on? Why are you recording the Chris? Stop. Why are you recording the nursing home? I'm speaking to you. I'm getting complaints about your actions. What is going on? Please let me go. >> No, I need to find out what's going on. You're upsetting the people who work here. >> So, stop. >> I'm going to go. >> I'm ordering you to stop. >> Officer Holland of the Mandota Police Department arrived in response to a complaint from the residents who claimed Christopher was trying to film inside the facility. When she approached, she immediately demanded that Christopher stop recording. He calmly refused and that refusal set the stage for a tense confrontation. >> You work for me. I don't work for you. >> Well, I work for the public who called me here because of the actions. Did I do anything illegal? >> You're upsetting the people who live here. >> Did I do anything illegal? >> 27 from 156. Can you assist? You need to stop. Okay, >> I'm going to >> What is going on? And why >> is this illegal? >> I want to know what's going on because you're upsetting these people. I want to know what you're doing. >> Did I do anything illegal? I don't answer questions. Definitely not. >> Disorderly conduct, Chris. >> Disorderly conduct. >> Arming and disturbing the people who are >> Am I allowed to photograph on the sidewalk or no? The officers pressed Christopher about the complaint, questioning whether he was violating any laws. Christopher explained that photographing from a public sidewalk is legal. The officers insisted he was disturbing residents. [music] Neither side would back down, and the standoff grew more intense with every passing moment. >> I'm trying to figure out what you're doing. >> Okay, >> Chris, >> look. >> I'm going to put you in handcuffs if you don't stop. >> You could put me in handcuffs. >> Okay, then stop. >> No, you could put me in handcuffs. This isn't legal. >> Stop. >> This is not legal. This is >> What are you doing? >> This is not legal, >> Chris. >> This is not legal. I'm trying. I'm going >> I'm detaining you until I can find out what you're doing and why you're doing this. >> This is illegal. >> That's a Terry stop. >> I'm detaining you. >> That's a Terry stop. >> As the situation escalated, Officer Holland put Christopher in handcuffs. The tension was high. Every look, every word, every movement mattered. The legality of the stop hung in the air and the residents complaints added pressure. It felt like the standoff couldn't get worse. But then someone new arrived. >> Why are you recording him inside? And he will not give me that answer if he keeps away from >> I'm definitely not answering questions to you guys, but >> Okay, I'll hold him. Go see if they'll sign a complaint for disorderly conduct. >> Open that door. Fine. >> Why you being there with >> Hey, can I not photograph on the sidewalk? >> They were They were They were concerned that you were photographing residents inside. >> No, there wasn't. >> You weren't. You're just photographing. >> All these vines are closed. Yeah. >> Along here. I don't know if they are or not. >> Go look at them. Okay. All right. >> Why wouldn't you stop when she asked you to? >> Do I have to? >> You really want to go that route? >> What? What kind of >> We're investigating somebody acting in a disorderly manner. >> How? >> You're video recording a nursing home and you were upsetting the res on the sidewalk. >> We didn't know that. Don't we have to talk about >> photography on the sidewalk? Answer questions to that. >> No, I don't. >> Wow. >> Do I? >> Where'd you get your law degree, man? >> Do I? I do. I was videotaping in front of the sidewalk. This is a univer. This is a whole This is a right. >> I have no idea, man. You You won't cooperate with us to tell us what's going on. You're being asked to cooperate and the police officers giving you a direct order and you're you won't stop >> because I don't have to. Cuz I didn't illegal. >> So that's in your opinion, not ours. >> No. No, it's not. >> I did not do anything illegal. Okay. >> Sergeant Stewart stepped in and the mood shifted instantly. His calm authority sliced through the tension as he started asking pointed questions and trying to unravel what was really going on. Christopher remained handcuffed, the legality of the stop still hanging in the air, but Stuart's presence hinted that the standoff might finally turn in his favor. >> So, he's walking by videotaping the building. >> Video taping the building. He's like zooming in on the window the doors. >> I know >> it's not illegal to do that. >> I explain to them what's going on and they're like, "Oh my gosh." Okay. I I don't know what he's doing. >> Okay, but time out. That's not illegal to do that. >> Okay. >> So, he's not acting in a disorderly manner if he's on the sidewalk walking by videotaping the outside of the building. >> That's the problem we have. >> Yeah. And they were disturbed by his actions once they found out what was going on. >> But how are they? They they're disturbed that he's walking on the sidewalk videotaping. >> Concerned because they don't know his mental state. They don't know what he was doing. They And I told him I can't. >> Well, he wasn't I mean other than not obeying you, which is a no no, which I mean that is what it is. But as far as walking by with a video camera, I mean, I'm not that's that's not something that >> they bothered by the action. >> You could be bothered by a lot of things, Sam. Stuart pressed further, questioning Holland's reasoning and pointing out that recording from a public sidewalk wasn't disorderly. Slowly, the tension eased. Almost immediately, Christopher was uncuffed. Holland stepped back. Stuart ensured procedure and Christopher collected himself, finally free to go. In the end, no charges were filed. Holland got a C minus for rushing the detainment. Stuart earned an A+ for restoring order and Christopher got a B+ for staying calm, though filming the facility raised ethical questions. The encounter showed how quickly a simple audit can escalate [music] and how calm and knowledge make all the difference. A sidewalk audit outside a retirement home seemed [music] calm. But on Lake Travis, even quiet days can erupt into a tense standoff. >> Somebody that owns the lake, I fish here all the time. I'm sorry. What? >> Yeah. >> What are you going to do? What are you going to do? >> Are you going right ahead, buddy? You're on camera, just so you know. Call me an [ __ ] I'm out here just fishing, mine of my own. You're the one that rolled up on me. >> Well, can you one of the $100,000 boats or >> I'm not touching anybody's property, man. Have a good day. >> On June 20th, 2021, YouTube fisherman Justin Royal was enjoying a calm day on Lake Travis, Texas. He was out on his boat near a private marina focused on fishing and filming. Everything felt peaceful, but calm days don't always stay calm. Can't fish in the swims. >> Oh, is that a fact? Is that a fact? >> I didn't hit anything. >> I just watched it. >> No, you didn't. >> Let you know someone coming down here. >> Somebody that owns the lake. I fish here all the time. >> I didn't touch the boat. Have a good one. A marina employee noticed Justin fishing near the docks and approached him. He told Justin he wasn't allowed to fish there. Justin explained he was on public water and continued his day. It was a simple interaction, but you could feel something brewing underneath. >> Yeah, there's no fishing around here. >> Okay. >> Y >> cool. Thanks. >> Have a good day. >> Hey, I don't want to say it again. >> You could say it all you want to, buddy. >> Say it all you want. Say it all you want. What am I doing if there's no fishing here? What am I doing right now? >> You're fishing. >> That's right. I'm fishing. I'm going to keep fishing, too. Have a good day. >> Man, I'm following my rules and my boss's rules. >> Listen. >> And my marina rules. >> Listen. >> Have a good day, brother, but don't curse at me. >> I'm sorry. What? >> Yeah. >> What are you going to do? What are you going to do? >> Are you Go right ahead, buddy. You're on camera, just so you know. Call the cops. Call them up, man. This is public water. You can't come down here and run me off. >> Well, I'm just doing what I'm told to do. >> Well, whoever told you told you wrong. This is public water. I'm not on your marina. I'm not touching your property. Have a good day. Call me an [ __ ] I'm out here just fishing, mine on my own. You're the one that rolled up on me. >> My job. >> Your job to what? Enforce the public water. This is public water. You can't you can't enforce. >> All right. >> All right. Have a good day, man. >> Before the moment could settle, a second Marina employee arrived on a golf cart. [music] His approach was stronger, repeating the same claims and adding more pressure. Justin stayed steady on his boat, still fishing while the tension slowly climbed. What started as a quiet afternoon was beginning to feel like a storm waiting to break. >> There's a guy down here fishing. There's a guy down here fishing public water. Hurry, call him up. Oh, this should be interesting. He said he's going to cut my line. There's another one. Yes, they're still down there, too. That's what I'm talking about. Heck yeah, dude. We still smacking them. Tempted to throw this one in the live well. Just let them know, hey, good fishing around your marina. You missed it, Kyle. I just cracked one right under there, man. Oh, really? >> You missed it, bro. >> Okay. Well, can you take one of the $100,000 boats or >> I'm not touching anybody's property, man. Have a good day. I really hope your day gets better, brother. >> Did you get or anything? >> Oh. Oh, man. I'm I'm so worried, man. Have a good day, brother. Watch out who you callingshole, though. Somebody might just Somebody might just hop on land and and give you what for you go around calling random people on the lake. All right. >> Have a good day, brother. >> What are you going to do about it? What are you going to do after you run in here now? >> I'm right here, buddy. I'm right here, buddy. Bye. >> Right there. >> Hey, what's going on, boss? How you doing? >> Did you get anything, >> man? I cracked a few right under that marine over there. There's probably about 50 of them straight loaded. Do me a favor. >> Oh, I know they called you. Yeah. Couple of these boys come down here pissed. >> Yeah. And that's just doing their job. >> I understand. But you know, they come up and call me [ __ ] >> Yeah, we don't want that by any means, but I come over here to deescalate it. >> Yeah, I appreciate that. >> To let you know, um, we don't mind fishing here because it's >> the second marina employee called the police, escalating the situation. Soon, an officer arrived to sort things out. He spoke with Justin first, listening to his explanation and checking his position on the water. After confirming everything, the officer told Justin he didn't mind him being there because the water was public. Just like that, the atmosphere began to shift back toward calm. >> But Sure. Just don't make sure you those lures on these. >> Absolutely. >> Some of these boats 300. >> Sure. Yeah. You got some you got some money up in here and I absolutely have nothing but utter respect for everybody's property. I wouldn't want anybody my boat. I'm a boat owner, so I understand this is how these interactions should go right here. >> The way they rolled up on me and I got it all on camera. I run multiple cameras all day long. That's what I do. So, I know I'm in the right though. You need teach them boys how to approach somebody and you'll get a whole lot further. >> Oh, yeah. 100%. >> But no, I'm not here trying to cause trouble, man. I'm trying to catch a couple fish. >> You got an expensive boat yourself. >> So, I understand. I would I would I haven't one of these boats and I wouldn't one of these boats. >> So, we just wanted to let you know we're here to work with y'all and I know you're enjoying your I'm Luke. >> Luke. I'm Justin. It's good to meet you, Luke. I appreciate you coming out here and talking to me like a man cuz I'm a man and that's how it gets through. >> This a long time out here. >> Yeah. These these boys are a little green. >> It's all right. Yeah, it's all right. I'm not Yeah, I'm not mad at them. They'll learn. >> Let me tell you. Yes, I responsibility at their rage. >> Sure. They Yeah, they're doing their job, but but their job is not to enforce public water. So, >> so I know the law and they're dealing with an angler who fishes every day. So, >> Gotcha. That's what we're here for in law enforcement. So, >> Good deal. Yeah, >> you got it. So, we just like to come in and say hello, number one. Number two, just try to let you know. And you know the rules better than I do on the water. >> Absolutely. And I'm I don't intend on breaking any of them. >> Don't touch these things. >> No, sir. Not at We're good. >> Yeah. Yeah, we're good. I'm good. If y'all are good, I mean, I'm just fishing. >> With the officer clearing things up, the pressure faded. Justin was free to continue fishing, and the confrontation that once felt ready to explode was brought back down to earth. A situation that had been heating up suddenly cooled off. In the end, Justin continued his day peacefully on the lake without further issues. The officer handled everything professionally, easing the tension and giving clarity on the rules. Justin stayed patient through it all, and the moment became a reminder for the marina staff moving forward. The lake drama had faded, but trouble waits [music] for no one. Weeks later, a routine drive would ignite a tense showdown, pushing patience, authority, and nerves to the edge. >> How often do you pull someone over? >> How often pull people over? >> How often you drive in the left lane for 5 miles going 48 mph? >> I wasn't doing 48 mph, sir. >> Am I being detained? Am I being detained, sir? Cuz I've got to go home. Can you call your supervisor? Call your supervisor, please, right now. Thank you. >> You understand what I'm trying to tell you? >> I understand what you're trying to say. >> Only thing I was doing was stopping you, getting you pulled over so one, you'd calm down and quit endangering other people's lives. >> I wasn't in danger nobody's lives. >> On August 4th, 2021, William Barnwell from Alabama was driving home with his wife through Cherokee County, North Carolina. Up ahead, a probation officer, Harold Mashburn, was driving slower than the speed limit in the left lane. When Barnwell passed him on the right as the lane opened up, Mashburn suddenly displayed his badge and motioned for him to pull over. The moment felt ordinary, but it wouldn't stay that way. >> Sir, I don't You can film me all day long. If you're a police officer, you should have a body camera >> because you're not a police officer. It says right there, you're a probation officer. I'm not on probation. I've never been in trouble for anything. >> In the state of Alabama, >> tell my camera again how you're a police officer. >> Will you answer my question? [music] I've I've answered yours. Now, let me ask you a question. in the state of Alabama. What are your probation officers considered to be? >> I have no idea. We're not in Alabama. >> Okay. Do you live in Alabama? Cuz your tag says you have >> I guess when a police officer gets here, we'll determine a whole bunch of stuff. >> Are you Well, >> how often do you pull someone over? >> How often? I pull people over. >> How often do you drive in the left lane for 5 miles going 48 miles an hour? >> I wasn't doing 48 miles an hour, sir. >> Uhhuh. So, how fast were you going? >> I was doing 55. >> And what happened? You come flying up. >> No, I when I passed you, I was going 48 miles an hour. But if your car here that's not a police car, had the radar in it, you would know how fast I was going. >> Yes, sir. And I'm able to do speed estimations. >> I'm sure you will be. I guess when your real police officer gets here, I'm sure I'm going to get some tickets. >> All right. Well, you just tight. Just hang tight. Okay. >> What's your name? >> Would you like to identify yourself? >> What? Have you going to give me your driver's license? >> Uh, you're not a police officer. >> Okay, then you just said t. Oh, you're refusing to identify. You're refusing to identify yourself. >> Just sit tight. >> You're refusing to identify yourself even though you pulled me over. >> Barnwell pulled over as an unmarked car singled him out. Probation officer Harold Mashburn stepped out, recording on his phone and acting like a full-blown traffic cop. He demanded Barnwell's ID, claiming reckless driving, but Barnwell refused. Fully aware Mashburn had no authority. What started as a routine drive quickly turned into a tense standoff, and no one knew how far it might escalate. >> Am I being detained? Am I being detained, sir? Cuz I've got to go home. Am I Are you detaining me? Are you detaining me? Am I being detained? Hey, I'm going to step out because you're >> quit acting crazy. >> Am I being detained cuz I need to be on my way. >> Is it Is this a lawful stop? Am I being detained? Are you detaining me? >> Are you detaining me? Is that hard to understand? Because you know this is not legal. >> Time dragged on and tension thickened with every passing minute. Barnwell's need to leave grew urgent. Yet Mashburn refused to clearly say if he was being detained. Each evasive reply turned a routine roadside moment into a standoff that felt like it could explode at any second. Barnwell stayed calm, standing firm against the vague authority pressed on [music] him. While Mashburn clung to power he didn't fully hold. This is not legal and you know this. Hey, I'm going to leave now because you won't tell me if I'm being detained or not. >> Well, evidently you are being detained. >> Am I be are am I being detained? >> Evidently. >> Say it. Say it, >> sir. Am I being detained? Will you say those words? You can either. Am I free to leave? >> Am I free to leave? So, I am being detained. Why don't you answer that? You're not talking to anybody now. What am I being detained for? >> Well, if you'd pay attention to me and listen to me a few minutes ago, I was trying to explain all this to you, sir, but you did not rush to listen to me. You wanted to talk over me. >> I don't know. >> Am I being detained? I'm I'm going to go home now. I'm going home now. >> Am I free to go? Am I being detained? So now he's going to get my tag. >> How long does a Terry stop last, sir? >> I'm not going to stop. >> What? So what am I being detained for? You want Am I being detained? >> Aggressive driving. >> Am I being detained? >> Aggressive driving you down, sir. >> Sir, you know you pulled me over over 15 minutes now. How long is the Terry stop? Can you call your supervisor? Call your supervisor, please, right now. Thank you. >> Hey, you see that? If you're out here patrolling the highways. >> Yeah, I got one one person at a time that I can deal with, sir. >> How fast was that car? You're an expert on speed. How fast was that car going? >> Just calm down. Just calm down. warm. If you relaxed and had a conversation with me here, we'd probably be both going about our ways and doing your jobs. You going home and me going doing my job. You understand what I'm trying to tell you? >> I understand what you're trying to say. >> Only thing I was doing was stopping you getting you pulled over. So, one, you calm down and quit endangering other people's lives. >> I wasn't in danger nobody's lives. >> Yes, sir. >> We're in more danger when you got me pulled over out here than we were out here going up and down this highway. possibility of truth. >> So, I'll tell you what I'll do. >> Since we're talking and being calm, will you answer one question for me? And I won't say another word to the state trooper. >> Am I being detained? >> You have been stopped until I can get a trooper here talk have a talk with you because you cannot talk to me. >> Why is that not a yes or no question? >> Well, cuz I've done answered that question. You asked me are you being detained? I've said you've been stopped. >> But you won't say am I free to leave then since you won't answer. >> I've already answered that question. So, you won't say if I'm being detained? >> Minutes stretched into over 15 with Barnwell questioning why he was still being held. Mashburn insisted the stop was about safety, claiming Barnwell's driving endangered others. Even though remaining on the roadside created more risk than moving along the highway, calmly strategic, Barnwell called for backup, summoning a legitimate law enforcement officer. Every second felt loaded, as if the next move could tip the encounter into chaos. >> Hey, sir. >> Yes, sir. >> How are you? >> I'm good. >> Good. Good. Hey, look. I don't really fully understand what what we're >> Me either. >> What we're doing right here, okay? So, uh, he just felt like you were aggressively coming up on him. He's a probation officer. Okay. Um, so I'm not going to write you for anything. I'm not doing anything like that. Okay? You like you got your insurance here. >> I'm wound up. You're unminding me. I appreciate that. >> Understand? Okay. So, where you headed to? You headed back home? >> I'm Alabama. >> Okay. All right. So, look, it's one of those things, okay? He you may have come up on him a little quick. He may have, you know, it's one of them things, okay? So, as long as I mean, like I said, I I >> I'm good. I don't have anything. I don't have anything to write for. I don't have anything like that. Um I'm not going to do even if I'm not stop. He just feel, you know, he just felt like you come up on him a little hard. Um you might been a little aggressive. So if if that is the case, let's just back it down a little bit. You're nearly to Georgia anyway. >> That's why I said I appreciate it. >> After 30 t minutes, a state trooper arrived, assessed the situation independently, and it became clear Barnwell never needed to be held. No ticket, no arrest. Just like that, the tension broke, and the roadside standoff was over. In the end, Barnwell drove home safely. Mashburn received an F for overstepping his authority. Barnwwell earned an A minus for staying calm and protecting his rights, and the trooper scored an A+ for deescalating the tense standoff. Suspense gave way to order, proving the power of composure, proper authority, and standing firm under pressure. The road drama was over, but soon authority would be pushed again. This time at a public office. >> I'm sorry, but you cannot film here without permission. >> I don't need anybody's permission to exercise this lady off my property. >> So, I just got off the phone with my lieutenant. >> Yes. >> And I mean, he said she's good to film. And >> No, no, she's not. She's not. You don't know the rules here. She's filming me without my permission, which is another violation. Sir, she needs to go. Period. >> On May 6th, 2024, Jen [ __ ] a First Amendment advocate, began filming the Montgomery County clerk's drive-thru registration windows. A security guard appeared, insisting she couldn't film without written permission. When Jen refused to explain her actions, he called a deputy, igniting a tense standoff over rights, rules, and authority. >> Hey, sir. How you doing? >> Good. How are you? >> Good. I'm scared for my safety of this guy. >> Okay. this one. >> I'm here to do official business. >> Okay. >> And I'm exercising my First Amendment right. That's what I'm doing. >> Okay. Let's get out of the road. >> Okay. That's what I'm doing. >> Okay. >> This security I'm not breaking any laws, >> right? Um so I mean you're just going around filming? >> Yeah. >> Okay. Um >> I'm a citizen review journalist. This is what I do with government officials. >> Mhm. And I'm here on official business. I want to check into the tax maps, stuff like that. And I did film by the DMV because that's something new. I never seen that before. Not breaking any law, sir. And I'm not giving you my ID either. >> Okay. >> Cuz Tennessee is not I'm not is not a type of ID state. >> Okay. >> Unless you unless you being unless I'm being arrested for something, then I have to give you that my ID. >> Right. Right now, you're not being arrested. >> Okay. Yeah, you're not detained. Um, you're free to go. >> Jen pressed on, filming outside the Clarksville Montgomery County Public Library as tension crackled in the air. Deputy Evans arrived and she calmly asserted her First Amendment rights, documenting government activity and refusing to show ID since she wasn't under arrest, igniting a standoff that could explode at any moment. >> It's against the rules here to film without express permission. And for me to ask her what her purpose is here and her tell me it's none of my business. Well, that's incorrect. >> Correct. So, she's not allowed to film here unless you have explicit permission from the facilities engineering manager. Those are the rules here. This is county government property. This is not public property, ma'am. >> Government is public property. >> No, ma'am. It is not. I'm sorry, but you cannot film here without permission. >> I don't need anybody's permission to exercise my lady off my property. >> The security guard pushed back hard, insisting Jen needed written permission and demanding she explain herself or leave, standing firm [music] as if the rules were unbreakable. So, security guard wants this lady kicked out of here because he said she can't film here without permission. Yeah, she's asking for a supervisor. I'm like, "Look, we you don't need one. I'll just talk to the security guard and be like, "Look, man, per my supervisor, she's not hurting anything and not bothering anybody. She can film here." >> Where's she at? >> She's outside the library. She like filming outside of the park. >> Yeah, she's just being an auditor. >> Yeah. And I don't know about her trying to get into She can film inside the library, right? I just wanted to make sure I just wanted to make sure I'm right. Like Yeah. Okay. Yeah. Cuz I don't She's not doing anything wrong. Hey, so I just got off the phone with my lieutenant. >> Yeah. >> And I mean, he said she's good to film and >> No, no, she's not. She's not. You don't know the rules here, right? >> Okay. You need to You need to check with somebody before you make that. >> That's my lieutenant. >> Dude, I don't care. I The rules here I enforce. I want her off the property. She's not allowed to film. That's not up for debate. Period. I mean, do I have to call, you know, Mayor Golden or something? >> I mean, if you want. I mean, like I said, I just got off the phone with my >> I don't care what your lieutenant said. He doesn't know the rules here either. >> Okay. She's not allowed to film without written consent from Mark, who is the facilities manager, >> right? >> If I ask her what she's doing, I expect an answer, not it's none of your business. I'll do whatever I want. I want her off the property. It's that simple. She's not allowed to do what she's doing. Your lieutenant is not his decision to make. These are the rules, period. And I enforce them. If there's a problem with that, I'll I'll you know, if you're not gonna back me up, then I'll >> It's not that I'm not wanting to. It's that you know, like she's >> she's not allowed to do what she's doing. You don't get it. This legal dude is This is government property, >> not public, >> right? >> She can't do it here without written permission and consent. When I ask her what she's doing and she refuses to tell me, she's leaving property. That's all there is to it. >> I mean, From my understanding, she's not breaking any laws. And according this is county. Do you know what the rules are here at the county government um facility here? Do you know what they are? >> Anywhere open. I mean, it's open to the public. >> Please. Do you know what they are? >> Do you know what the rules here are? >> No. Not here. >> I do. That's my job. I'm telling you. She's not allowed to do what she's doing and I want her off property. Period. It's really simple. She's not allowed to do what she's doing. And after giving me the hard time, I want her off the property. I got other things to tend to. >> But I mean, I'm not allowed to kick her off. >> You most certainly are allowed to escort her off property. Yes, sir. I've had it done many times. Don't please don't tell me you can't do that. >> Incorrect. >> But she's not doing anything. >> My goodness. We're going to go over this again. Yes, she is. She is violating the rules here at county government property. You're not She's not allowed to do what she's doing. Tension mounted as Deputy Evans called his lieutenant to confirm the law and with clarity from his supervisor. He knew Jen was in the right. Yet the guard refused to relent, escalating the standoff with every insistence that she leave. >> Talk to the supervisor. I went in for all good. >> Yeah, she's just filming and the security guard got a case of that at this point. I'm >> like, she's not breaking any laws. He's like, "Well," he's like, "But she's breaking the rules." I'm like, "Yeah." I'm like, "If you want to pick her out, you can, but I'm I'm not." Oh, I understand what his issue is. I mean, like, everywhere that's open to the public, she can go, but I don't know. I don't He's He's not getting it. I'm like, "Dude, you're not freaking like if you want to call the mayor, you can call me." Okay. Okay. >> But I mean like she just agreed with >> I don't care what she agreed with. Like I said, you guys don't know the rules here. This is my She's filming me without my permission, which is another violation, sir. She needs to go. Period. >> So, I mean, you're allowed to record. I mean, like, >> no, not here. You have to have written consent. And the person being filmed has to give consent. I do not. She is to leave property. It's that simple. >> That simple. Those are the rules here. And this is my job. Okay. >> If you're going to undercut me, >> I'm not. >> Yes, you are. If you're going to undercut me, let my I need your name and badge number so I can turn it in. >> When I called you guys, I expect to be backed up. >> Secure. >> Okay. Not to be told what it's like off property. >> But on property, it's a different set of rules. >> What I'm saying is she's not breaking the law. >> She is. You don't get it. You just don't get it, dude. You work for the county. You still don't get it. She's not allowed to do what she's doing on county government property. Either escort her off or please give me your name and badge on her so I can take it higher. I'm sick to not be impacted up here. >> Okay. I'm trying to do the job they tell me to do and you guys are cutting me off at the knees. She's not allowed to do what she's doing. She's not allowed to film me without my express permission. And I don't give it. She needs to go. Period. Well, I mean, she is. >> Tennessee had It's a one-way argument. I don't get it. May I have your name and badge number? >> Yeah. I'm Deputy Evans. >> K954. >> I don't have my pen with me. >> Here you go. >> I like to have an escort to do public records. >> No, ma'am. You are not. >> I'm asking him. >> You're asking me. This is my post. I'm asking him. >> This is my post. Hold on. Hold on. Security. You're not going in that building. >> She's not going in these buildings, dude. He's not doing it. >> Why do you go against government policy like that, man? >> It's not the >> county. It's county government, ma'am. They have their own rules here >> that have to be followed. >> I want to have an escort, please. >> She's not going in that building. I'm telling you right now. >> Thank you. >> I have to have an escort. >> Hang on just a sec. I mean, you can make phone calls, man. >> I can. Believe me, I'm in the right gear. >> She's not allowed to do what she's doing on this property. Period. All right. Yeah, you might want to swing out. Why? >> Security guard's got a case of that. He's like, I'm not allowing her in any of these buildings. And I'm like, she's not breaking the law. She's just like first amendment auditing and I'm not I'm not I'm not fishing. It's not the auditor that's the [laughter] problem. >> Yeah, I got my supervisor coming. Um, >> dude, it's the rules aren't going to change because your supervisor is on the way. >> It's that simple. >> Look, I understand, you know, feeling some type of way with somebody feel filming and stuff like that. >> It's against the rules on this property. It's not how I feel about it. >> It's >> period. It's cut and dry. >> But I mean, it's she's it's not it's not illegal, >> dude. You're not You just You don't get it. You don't get it. This is county government property. >> And I work for the county. >> Yes. Then why are you not backing me up here? >> Because >> enforcing the rules that I have to enforce here. >> I mean, >> if you listen, if you cut me off at the knees, then you effectively cut my job off. I have no authority here to do my job if you don't back me up. And I I will call Wes and talk to him about this. I've already had to do it once already. >> Unbelievable, man. Supposed to be working together here. We're both counting, >> right? >> I mean, but she's not causing a disturbance. She's not hurting anybody. >> She's not listening. >> I mean, >> it doesn't none of that is that's irrelevant. It's irrelevant. She can't do what she's doing. >> She's filming me without my permission on this property is not acceptable. >> But I mean, she's allowed to. She That's not against the law either. >> Dude, yes, it is. You don't have no idea what goes on here. >> You need to learn what goes on here before you come make a decision cuz you don't know. >> You do not know. Am I getting an escort to do a public record? >> I'm not going in that building. >> I'm not talking to you, sir. >> I'm security here and I'm telling you, you're not going in that building filming. She's not doing it. >> I'm not talking to you, sir. >> She's not doing it. Period. >> But she's allowed to. >> No, she's not. >> I mean, like legally. >> Oh my god. You have her head. She is not allowed to do it. You can't film. >> Yeah, you can. >> No. Oh my god, dude. You cannot on government property without consent. Throughout the standoff, Deputy Evans stayed calm and respectful, making it clear Jen had every right to film in public areas. But the security guard wouldn't let up, blocking her path, arguing over permission, [music] and trying to stop her from entering the library at all. The tension lingered in the air, fueled by his insistence on keeping her out despite having no authority to do so. So, she's here filming um wanting to do like, >> you know, filming stuff. Um >> he doesn't want to introduce myself. I'm a friendly. >> Nice to meet you. I'm a friendly person. I'm just here to do a public records request under the Tennessee statute. I want to inquire about their policies and stuff. That's it. And I did film on the side of the DMV because that's something new that I never saw. So, I was like, but I never went inside. >> I stayed outside. Um, I'm just actually starting my first member, right, as a citizen video. Yeah. not breaking any laws. Like I don't know what's his I don't know what his I don't know what his deal is. >> Okay. >> So, it's my understanding that the clerk's office didn't ask her to leave. She was outside the whole time, but I guess one of them might have felt nervous. >> And now he's not wanting to let her in. >> Please. So, >> that's where we're at. And I was trying to explain to him like, hey, she can go in, she can film. What? Hey, I just watch your back. Okay. Um, no, you're good. Um, you're not doing anything wrong. As long >> Yeah. Inquire about the public records. >> Absolutely. Absolutely. No. Um, as long as you're not accessing restricted areas or anything like that. >> Yeah. No, you're good. Um, I just got to >> I'm going to have to talk to him. Yeah. How's it going, man? You doing okay? >> You doing good? Um, >> do >> you know where the clerk's office is? I could go straight there. >> So, the clerk's office is right here. >> Okay. >> Um, >> like I said, I don't know anything about the process to uh do a public information request. >> I'm just afraid that he's got to put hands on me. >> No, he's not going to do that. >> Okay. Do that. >> No, you're Yeah, you're fine. >> Yeah. Like I said, you're not as long as you don't access restricted areas, you're good to go. >> The standoff intensified until Sergeant Foreer arrived. Deputy Evans and his supervisor confirmed Jen could film in public and ensured her safety. She explained her intentions, stressing she wasn't interfering with anyone. When the guard tried to block her, Jen requested an escort, and Evans and Foreigner made sure she could move freely, fully protected. >> How's it going, man? >> Good, good, good. What's going on? >> Well, apparently the library has much different rules than a lot of the other places. In the library, you cannot film without express written consent. You also cannot throw somebody in the library without their personal consent. >> Okay. >> Apparently, so here's the thing with >> what this lady's doing is okay. Apparently, >> it is. It is. Absolutely. But here's the thing with that. >> That's what I was saying. Like I was probably not explaining it correctly. You know, I wasn't trying to say that. >> Yeah. >> Their policies are not going to trump the law. >> Yeah. I mean, she can still be asked to leave, >> but I certainly can't let her go into these buildings filming and disrupting. But you can um >> as long as she's not >> there's nothing you can do to stop. >> Yeah. As long as she's not interfering. >> Well, that's restricted areas. She doesn't have business in the office. >> A hold of alarm at 128 North Street in the sense that's where they've got to fall back just like we do. Just like this gentleman right here is filming right now. I can't stop what I'm doing. >> Yeah. Yeah. Sure. >> Just because he's filming. >> Yeah. >> I feel you. >> So, you've got to learn to work around that. We're >> okay. Unfortunately, you know, like and or not unfortunately, but I mean that's just I mean that's especially working in the public, you know, you're going to have >> guys so much stupid stuff here, man. It's un like I said, I'm not trying to not trying to not back you up, but the >> First Amendment is stupid. >> Huh? >> The first amendment is stupid. >> That's not what he said, sir. >> That's not what he said. >> No, sir. >> But not at all. >> Like I said, he said he deals with stupid stuff. He didn't say >> stupid things happened here. You know, just silly stuff. Interview. >> You're fine. >> No, you're good. >> But yeah, that's I mean that's something that, >> you know, it's just part of the you know. >> Well, I know it definitely freaked out Teresa over there and and it happens, but I mean they've just got to learn to work around. >> Oh, where did she go anyway? >> She went in there. >> County. All right. >> As long as she's not accessing restricted areas. Now, if they ask me to remove her >> now, the county clerk, yeah, can ask her to leave, but as long as >> she's like causing any commotion or anything, which I don't think she will. >> Yeah. Right. >> But, but I mean, you start getting complaints. Well, I don't want to be filmed. That's not a valid reason. >> That's Yeah, >> that's not a valid reason. I mean, like, he can film he can turn around and film anybody in the public right now. He sure it's annoying to some people, but there's nothing wrong with it. shot. >> It's actually down there. >> I'm still going to have to go and make sure that you know there's not a problem down there. Well, if >> there's a problem, they'll call. >> They will. >> Yeah. I mean, you're not going to have to follow around the whole time. And look, I'm going to tell you, I I've >> When you do start doing that, >> that's where the problem's going to be for you. >> Let them do their thing. >> I I still And I'm doing my thing. Yeah, I'm doing my thing. So, I walk this place all day every day. If I happen to walk in that direction, I'm not following her. I'm doing my job. >> Absolutely. Absolutely. >> So, that's all. >> All right. Well, you need to make sure >> you're fine. >> No, you're good, man. >> Change here. >> All right. Thanks for coming out. Appreciate you. >> Deputy Evans and his supervisor told the security guard that Jen's First Amendment rights overruled county rules. Sergeant Forner reinforced it, citing the supremacy clause, but the guard still insisted she needed permission. In the end, Jen was allowed to film inside the clerk's office without interference. She shared her footage online. The security guard was removed, and Deputy Evans and Sergeant Forner were praised for defending her rights. Jen stayed calm and firm while the guard was criticized for hostility and overstepping the law. Jen's standoff ended, but the battle over public filming wasn't over. Soon, another auditor would face a tense showdown. >> It's public property. >> It is public property, but when you start recording our perimeter and our gates and what our activities are, it's it's a concern to us. What is your name? I'm not going to give that to you. >> You're not going to give it to me? >> No. Why would I give it to you? I haven't done anything wrong. >> Reporting our property. >> I have to identify myself. >> Correct. And I have to identify myself. >> On May 17th, 2020, John Mitchell, a podcaster and First Amendment Auditor, was filming outside the St. Louis Park Police Department in Minnesota. Everything seemed routine at first, but tension was quietly building as officers noticed him recording. >> Hello. >> What's going on? >> Not much. Just walking around. Videotaping the police department is not a good idea. >> Why? You guys are friendly people. >> We are. But why are we doing this? >> Why wouldn't we? >> Cuz it's a security issue for us. >> Is it? >> It is. >> I don't think so. >> It is. >> It's public property. >> It is public property. But when you start recording our perimeter and our gates and what our activities are, it's it's a concern to us. >> I've only been here for about 15 minutes, >> right? We had officers that drove by and saw you pulling out of here walking out of here and said that you were recording them as they left. >> I did. >> Yeah. And that's an issue. Why are we doing that? >> I don't have to have a reason. >> You don't have a reason. >> I don't have to have one. >> Officer Todd Hines approached, clearly on alert. He questioned Jon's presence and expressed concern over security. John calmly explained he was on public property filming peacefully, but the situation was far from settled. >> You have a driver's license. I can see. >> I don't. >> What is your name? >> I'm not going to give that to you. >> You're not going to give it to me? >> No. Why would I give it to you? I haven't done anything wrong. >> Well, you're recording our property. You're recording our building. Sure. >> And it's a security issue for us. >> Am I being detained? >> You are. >> Okay. >> Until I can get you identified. >> And what's your reasonable >> I want to make sure you're doing something that's a problem for our law enforcement community. >> So, in order to detain somebody, you have to have a law that you're investigating. Correct. So, which law are you what law do you suspect me of breaking? >> As the conversation unfolded, Officer Hines pressed Jon for identification. Jon politely refused, insisting he hadn't done anything wrong. The refusal created an uncomfortable standoff with each side holding their ground. Are you looking to create a problem here for us or >> No, not at all. I'm being polite and cordial. >> I'm being polite and cordial, too. So, I'm asking so we can identify you. >> I don't need to. >> And be on our way. >> Why would I need to identify myself? >> Cuz I'm asking you to identify yourself. >> What's your name and badge number? >> My name is Todd Hines. My badge number is 200. >> Okay. Your name and badge number. >> I'm recording you just like you're recording. >> Yeah. 216. >> Okay, good. >> So, >> okay. Well, I mean, I'd like to be on my way to go. I mean, you have to have reason. >> You're refusing to identify yourself. >> Well, there's no need to. >> 3916. Can we get >> Are you a supervisor? >> Okay. You just called for a supervisor. >> I did. >> Very good. Thank you. I appreciate that. >> Yeah. You bet. Okay. >> I'm not I don't have any ill will. I'm not here to hurt anybody. I'm not >> wrong with identifying yourself. >> I don't need to. >> You don't need to. >> No, it's my right to not. >> Oh, so you're looking to create problems is what you're doing. >> No, you're just accusing me of that. Absolutely. Cuz you're refusing to identify yourself. >> That's not against the law. >> It's obstructing legal process if we have a reason to ask you. >> What's your reason? I've asked you >> identify you. I just told you. No. No. But I asked you. >> You're recording our property. >> I have to identify myself. Correct. And I have to identify myself. >> If you have a reasonable, articulable suspicion. And what is that? >> You're looking to create problems is what you're doing. >> Is that what I'm doing by just filming and exercising my First Amendment right? >> That is my opinion. Yes. >> Okay. Well, the good thing is the law doesn't go off to your opinion. >> But it does when you're obstructing our requests. >> You can't you you can request, right? But it's not a lawful order. >> It is a lawful order at this point. >> If you if >> and as soon as my sergeant gets up, he's going to tell you the same thing. >> Tension lingered in the air as the officer accused Jon of trying to create problems. And Jon remained calm, courteous, and unyielding. The exchange became more charged, words weighing heavier than actions as Jon maintained his composure, and the officer's frustration grew. This gentleman's got a first amendment right. He says to videotape our activities around the police department and is refusing to identify himself so that we know who we're dealing with. >> Okay. You don't want to identify yourself with >> Well, I don't need to. He said he doesn't suspect me of a crime or anything and I'm just >> I'm just asking. >> No, but no, sir. I don't >> just ask. Okay, we're good. Let's go. >> Okay. >> Have a nice >> My name's John, by the way. >> Thanks. Take care, guys. >> Cooperation American. >> What's that? Thanks for your cooperation. >> Sergeant, what was your uh name and badge number? >> Sergeant Dat number 239. >> Thank you, sir. >> You have a good day. >> Moments later, Officer Hines called for a supervisor. The sergeant arrived quickly, assessed the scene, and eased the tension, allowing the situation to deescalate. John remained calm and professional as the sergeant clarified the circumstances. Officer Hines stepped back while the sergeant took control, preventing further escalation. In the end, no additional conflict occurred. Officer Hines earns a C minus, Sergeant Adam an A+, and John Mitchell an A for his measured professionalism.