When completing paperwork in a squad car after contacting a subject, where should the officer hold the paperwork?

Holding the paperwork high at the steering wheel while completing it in a squad car is advantageous for several reasons. This position allows the officer to maintain optimal visibility of the vehicle’s surroundings, which is crucial for situational awareness and safety. By keeping the paperwork elevated, the officer can quickly glance up to observe other vehicles, pedestrians, or potential threats while remaining focused on the task at hand.

Moreover, this position also helps in adequately organizing the paperwork, as it keeps it within easy reach without obstructing any essential controls or impeding the officer’s ability to drive if necessary.

Other positions, like placing paperwork on the dashboard, passenger seat, or lap, pose various risks. For example, paperwork on the lap may shift or fall, leading to distractions. Meanwhile, using the dashboard could impair visibility of important gauges or obstruct the deployment of airbag systems in some vehicles. Lastly, the passenger seat may not provide the same level of access or situational awareness as holding it at the steering wheel.