Summary
You have the right to refuse to answer the door for anyone, including the Police Benevolent Association. They may leave campaign materials if unanswered. You can express your opinion or leave a conversation without fear of arrest for disorderly conduct unless it involves public disturbances or fights. If you feel threatened, contact local police or a lawyer. For specific advice, consult a local attorney.Full Conversation
During the * Election campaigns next year, if my local Police Benevolent Association is going door-to-door (in support of either Joe Biden or Donald Trump), can I refuse to answer the door for them, or not?
Hello **** ****, you have the right to refuse to answer the door for anyone, including members of the Police Benevolent Association. However, they may leave campaign materials at your door. Could you please provide your location for more specific information?
Yes, I reside in Tampa, Hillsborough County, Florida. My area is patrolled by Tampa Police Department, so it would be Police officers from the local Tampa PBA going door-to-door during the campaigns next year.
Hello **** ****, in Tampa, Florida:
- You have the right to refuse to answer your door, even to the local PBA.
- If you're not home or don't answer, they may leave campaign materials.
- If you feel harassed, you can report it to your local police department.
Thank you. On a related note, I personally avoid both Security checkpoints and Police presence due to bullying I have received from several individual police officers and security Officers. I also suffer from severe Neuropathy, which makes me appear very unusual in public, and has angered officers to the point of violent threats in the past. If someone I talk to is speaking strongly in favor of either "Back the Blue" or "Stand for Security", and I either get up & walk away from them, or politely explain to them that I disagree, can they either use force on me or have me arrested for "disorderly conduct against law enforcement", due to my actions?
Hello **** ****, in Florida:
- You have a right to express your opinion or leave a conversation.
- "Disorderly conduct" usually involves public disturbances or fights.
- If you feel threatened, contact your local police or a lawyer.
Remember, I provide general guidance. For specific advice, consult a local lawyer.