Beat the Heat : How to Handle Encounters with Law Enforcement

by Katya Komisaruk, Tim Maloney (Illustrations)

Beat the How to Handle Encounters with Law Enforcement

192 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2003

Reviews

[Imogen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not going to lie to you: I bought this book because the cover is dorky. I was like, haha, sweet! How to beat the cops! Then, on the first page, there was an anarchist circle-A stuck inside a 0+ woman symbol spraypainted up on a well, which was my first tip that, actually, this was written by a totally badass anarchafeminist lawyer who wants people to know how to deal with the police. Because police are often jerks. I think it's also awesome how explicitly this book deals with racism, e.g. showing that the folks the cops fuck with are overwhelmingly folks of color.

It wouldn't seem like you'd need 180 pages of being told over and over again that, if you're detained, you have to say "I'm going to be quiet; I'd like to speak to my lawyer," but the reality is, it's is HARD to say that when the police are being a jerk to you. So reading it over and over in lots of different situations actually feels super empowering. AND THEREFORE I am totally glad I bought this dorky book, and am now torn between hanging onto it and letting folks borrow it if they want it or donating it to the Long Haul, where hell of folks could read it. Still haven't decided. K.

[Oriana]

Gotta get this for my crazed anarchist sis, to save her from herself really...

[Spicy T AKA Mr. Tea · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing book! It's packed with information to defend yourself from the ploys of cops and their associates. Lot's of great and accessible information ranging from being pulled over, to how to report police abuse, to what to do if you're an immigrant and need legal help. So much stuff here and presented in a fun way--with comics and little strips to break down situations into manageable scenarios. Everyone should read this. Know your rights!

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the first of these types of books I've read - that explain your Constitutional Rights using easy-to-understand language and examples - and it's still my favorite. I highly recommend it for anyone that assumes it's their duty to blindly obey someone in uniform. This isn't a cop-hater book.. this is a learning tool.

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS!

[From Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

the most helpful book you can ever own. especially if you live in an area where police brutality/abuses of power are prevelant...so that means everywhere.