Can I get a ticket for littering if a passenger throws trash out my car?

Question

I was dropping a friend off a couple days ago and he supposedly dumped a bunch of plastic bottles out of my car as he got out (I don't remember them ever being in my car, but I can't say for sure). After he walked away a guy pulled up and said he's an off-duty cop and is gonna give me a ticket for it. He even said "I saw your friend dump that stuff out" so I told him to give my friend the ticket instead but he said he'd still give me the ticket if I didn't clean it up. I cleaned it up because I didn't want any trouble but I was wondering if he actually could have given me the ticket even though he admitted I didn't do it?
BQ: Could he even give tickets when he's off duty? Or if he doesn't have proof that I littered?

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Voters

Yes. The driver is automatically responsible. You need better friends.

Answer 2

A toicket is an accusation, not a conviction. Anyone can be accused of anything. In my state, a cop has the same authority whether on duty or not. Many departments in my state have internal policies about being off-duty, because they do not wish to pay overtime, but that has nothing to do with authority to make an accusation.

Answer 3

The ticket will go to the owner of the car, if that is you yes, if it is your parents care, they will get the ticket. Anything a passenger does in your car it is your responsibility.

Answer 4

You are liable for your passengers. Seeing how your friend took off already, he can issue you the ticket instead. Mayke your friend give you the money. If he really is a friend, he'll help you out.

Answer 5

Yeah and your alibi is something out of junior high school. I am glad he gave you the ticket. Get your alleged friend who dumped them to pay the ticket.

Answer 6

yes definitely