"Philip Hanson (Volt Computer)" wrote:

> <<>>  But I guess we have no choice pretty much if/
> when we are asked if they can search the van but to let them?  ph '80
>

Don't cower in fear of rogue cops.  You have every right to say NO, and you
should unless you don't mind giving your rights and your freedom away.  You can
say something like, "officer, unless you have some reason to believe i a have
comitted a crime or am doing something illegal, I'd prefer that you not search
my vehicle.  I've done nothing wrong and have no intention of breaking the
law."  What's he going to say?  If you confront them as a polite, law abiding
citizen, chances are they'll balk and let it go.  Otherwise in order to search
the vehicle he has to arrest you (for what) or get a warrant (for what and why
go to all the hassel) or conduct an illegal search (and if you have nothing,
he'll have to let you go).    Be firm but very polite and reasonable and
friendly.  this is for those of us who DO mind getting searched just because we
drive vanagons....
steve