Police surveillance in Tennessee can happen for many reasons. Officers may be gathering evidence, watching suspected criminal activity or investigating serious offenses. Understanding what’s legal and what to look for can help you stay informed and protect your rights.
Here are some crucial points to remember.
Types of surveillance used by the police
There are several ways law enforcement might keep watch on someone. These include:
- Physical surveillance: Officers may follow you on foot or in vehicles, sometimes in plain clothes or unmarked cars.
- Electronic surveillance: This includes wiretaps, GPS tracking, and monitoring your phone or internet activity.
- Video surveillance: Police may use cameras in public spaces or place hidden cameras if they have a warrant.
In most cases, the police need a court order for more invasive methods such as tapping your phone or placing a GPS tracker on your car.
Common signs you’re being watched
While some surveillance is hard to detect, certain signs may suggest you’re under observation:
- Seeing the same unfamiliar car or person near your home or work repeatedly
- Hearing strange clicks or static on your phone
- Your phone battery draining faster than usual
- A sudden interest in your whereabouts by acquaintances or strangers
These signs alone do not prove police surveillance. There may be other explanations. However, noticing several of these signs at once can raise concern.
What is and isn’t allowed under Tennessee law
In Tennessee, police can observe anyone in public without a warrant. However, private conversations and locations, such as inside your home, are protected. Any recording or tracking that invades a reasonable expectation of privacy usually requires a warrant.
If you suspect unlawful surveillance, it may be time to seek some legal guidance.
