New England Clam Chowder & Traffic Law when a cop cites you and did not witness the infraction

While I bring to you my New England Clam Chowder, I explain a nuance in NY law that prohibits a cop from charging someone with a traffic infraction when the cop did not witness the violation.

an officer may not arrest, or cite in lieu of arrest, a motorist for committing a non-criminal traffic infraction unless the said infraction was committed in the officer’s presence. A police officer may arrest a person for a non-criminal petty offense if he has reasonable cause to believe that person committed the offense in his presence ( C.P.L. § 140.10(1)(a)). If the offense is a petty offense such as a non-criminal traffic infraction, as defined in C.P.L. § 1.20(39), a police officer may make an arrest only “when he has reasonable cause to believe that such person has committed such offense in his presence.” CPL § 140.10(1)(a).

I make my New England Clam Chowder by starting with bacon and, once the fat is rendered adding chopped fennel, chopped green onions, and garlic. Saute in the bacon fat, and once soft I add the diced potatoes. After a few minutes add some flour to start the thickening process.

Continue to stir until the potatoes are hot, and then add your seafood stock. Bring to a boil, add anchovy paste, and lower heat to a simmer. Add salt, pepper, and any other seasoning to taste. The New England Clam Chowder is ready when the potatoes are soft (about 20 minutes). Then add a can of clams.

Steam some fresh clams on the side. To plate, put the fresh clams in a bowl and pour the chowder over. Finish by adding either milk, half and half, or heavy cream and enjoy!