You could also simply point your web browser to Broadcastify (Opens in a new window), which is the feed source for many of these apps. If you just want to sit at home or in a café and watch police activity, there are several scanner apps available on the app stores for macOS and Windows. Some are free, but there are features in some that make them worth paying for-the last thing you want is a video ad right when you're trying to get crucial info. Both app stores are well stocked with options. These radio-scanning apps save you from buying a pricey hardware scanner: You can simply install an iPhone app or Android app on your smartphone. As an added perk, most of these mobile apps can play fire department and weather radio, too. If you're hoping to avoid a confrontation with local law enforcement while peacefully protesting or you just want to know what's going on in your area-what's that siren for? Why is there a police helicopter hovering over my neighborhood?-A police scanner app can help out. How to Set Up Two-Factor Authenticationĭuring the recent George Floyd protests, police scanner app downloads have skyrocketed.How to Record the Screen on Your Windows PC or Mac.How to Convert YouTube Videos to MP3 Files.How to Save Money on Your Cell Phone Bill.How to Free Up Space on Your iPhone or iPad.How to Block Robotexts and Spam Messages.This article was written only to give surface-level background on the legality of police scanners. Note: we are not licensed attorneys and we recommend that you consult an attorney if you have any questions about the specifics of these statutes. As in the case of many laws, penalties are elaborately layered. An individual robbing a bank (a crime with the penalty of 5-25 years in federal prison) most likely will not be hindered by additional penalties. While these laws are well-intentioned, they contain obvious oddities. Rhode Island: Up to 5 years and a $5,000 fine.Vermont: Up to 30 days in jail and a $250 fine.Penalties for this crime vary wildly from state to state. If you utilize a police scanner in aid of a crime, you can be charged with an additional crime. While there are nuances in each state, these laws all have the same bottom line: The image above highlights the States where there are restrictions surrounding the use of a scanner in the furtherance of a crime. States That Restrict Police Scanner Use in The Furtherance of a Crime However, because scanner apps have fairly recently entered the public sphere, and there is pending litigation in several states, these laws will change as precedent case law is constituted. Please note that police scanner apps are also covered by most of these statues. Most of these laws were intended for “fuzz busters," but they also apply to scanners. These laws were enacted to prevent users from listening to police communications with the intent to circumvent speed traps. You cannot use a police scanner while operating a motor vehicle. While there is nuance appended to these laws, and some states such as Minnesota and Florida authorize use with a permit or a HAM radio license, they all have the same bottom line: states where there are restrictions surrounding the use of a scanner while driving. Share this Image On Your Site Please include attribution to with this graphic.
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