As a retired LEO the only response is Am I being detained? Following their mumbling response with, am I free to go?
Cops don’t like being told no, but even worse is a citizen who reminds them of their constitutional authority. A lot of evidence is collected from complaint citizens. Cops need documentable probable cause to conduct these seizures and they know it.
I expect their collection process includes a signed waiver of your rights.
Your call if you want to cooperation, but suggest you turn on the video camera on your phone. Cops hate to have their actions recorded.
Doesn't that seem to provoke even more bizarre behavior by the LEO's and put you at risk of further abusive behavior? Just asking. Would like your perspective as a retired LEO.
I certainly see your point, but I think things start to go south when a citizen starts videotaping, although it shouldn’t. But, in a court of law we all understand what occurs, judges are almost universally predisposed to believe the LEO regardless, so video taping the incident, regrettably, is your only viable protection.