Mayfield Heights Fake Checkpoint Deemed Legal

Though it was fake, the drug checkpoint Mayfield Heights Police warned about a week ago was legal.

Police made a few arrests and drug seizures last week after monitoring how drivers reacted to signs that warned drivers on Interstate 271 about a drug checkpoint that didn't exist, according to a Plain Dealer report. The signs contained messages like, "Drug Checkpoint Ahead," "Police K9 Dog In Use" and "Prepare to Stop."

Three cars caught officers' attention when drivers crossed through the grassy median or at emergency vehicle crossings after seeing the signs.

"We should be applauded for doing this," Assistant Prosecutor Dominic Vitantonio told the newspaper. "It's a good thing."

However, a radio host told the paper he may have been targeted for his stop when he simply pulled over to check directions on his phone. Additionally, an American Civil Liberties Union spokesman said the organization would "gather information" about the signs and if they violate any liberties.

Peters made a public Facebook post after his arrest to express his side of the story.

"The police told me they were batting 1.000 busting people with drugs today," he wrote.

Ric Simmons, a law professor at the Moritz College of Law at Ohio State University, told the Plain Dealer that police are allowed to deceive people about fake checkpoints or anything else.

"They can lie to anybody," Simmons said.

What do you think about this practice — does it help keep your community safe or infringe on your rights? Let us know in the comments.