Asked 6/23/17 – Lott, TX

I was heading toward Lott, TX when I saw a City of Lott police vehicle and slowed down. I was WELL below the speed limit before entering the city limit and before the officer turned on his lights. I was also still outside the city limit after stopping and for the duration of the traffic stop. The location listed on the citation is .39 mile outside of the city limit. There is also a large radio (cell?) tower only 3000 feet from the location listed on the citation and vehicle mounted RADAR was used not laser. I am a correctional officer for the State of Texas as are the two witnesses in my vehicle with me at the time.

Answer

Yes, a police officer may issue a citation for an offense occurring outside the city limits of his/her municipality, and yes, there is a way to contest this matter. You have the right to enter a plea of not guilty to the offense alleged, and force the State to prove any allegation against you beyond a reasonable doubt. Calling a local attorney would help; from what you describe, there may be an issue of where and what court this ticket should be filed.