Radar Detectors

["Chris O'Conor" <Chris_OConor@netplexgroup.com>]

To the best of my knowledge, radar/laser detectors are only illegal in the
state of Virginia and the District of Colombia.  A Bill to eliminate the ban
has been brought to VA House for three years running and been killed
each time.  Virginia has oodles of 65MPH highways and a detector would
be nice.  On the other end of the spectrum, you're lucky to get half way
to the speedlimit in DC (unless you're being shot at).

BTW it is only illegal to OPERATE a radar/laser detector in the state of
Virginia.  The POSSESSION of a detector is not illegal.  A detector is
termed "in operation" if the driver can reach both the detector and its
power source.  (read:  hefty toss over right shoulder when you see
X-mas lights in the rearview).

The whole confiscation issue is a bit fuzzy too.  The detector can be
confiscated but many of the local Federalies like to get more creative.  A
good friend is a Strate Pooper here in VA & he says that he asks
offendors to back over their detectors and then hands the driver the
smoking bits of his/her detector.  The Trooper really can't force the driver
to do it,  just ask.  The power of suggestion is mighty strong when
you've got a badge and a big ol' gun.

-Chris O'Coor
coconor@netplexgroup.com