Police Command or Police Request?

What is the difference between a police command and a police request under the law? Is it always easy to tell the difference? We asked leading police law expert, Professor Rachel Harmon (UVA Law) to explain.

A police command is an order that carries the weight of law enforcement authority and requires compliance. Failure to comply with a lawful police command may result in legal consequences, such as arrest or prosecution.
On the other hand, a police request is a non-binding appeal for cooperation. A police request may be made when an officer is seeking information or assistance from an individual, but the individual is not required by law to comply.

It is important to note that the distinction between a police command and a police request may not always be clear-cut. In some cases, a police request may be made in such a way that it carries the weight of a command, or a command may be issued in a way that is more suggestive than authoritative. In these situations, Prof. Harmon points out that legal risks arrise.

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0:00 What''s the difference between a police command and a police request?
0:20 Examples of a Police Request
1:12 What makes a police command different?
2:11 Commands Phrased as Requests
3:50 Requests Phrased as Commands
4:45 Can you ask for clarification – command or request?
7:15 Not Complying with Requests, Police Reaction