A federal judge has ruled against the Kansas Highway Patrol in a case challenging its policies of detaining motorists without reasonable suspicion.

The judge ordered the KHP to stop using the infamous “Kansas Two-Step” technique, where a trooper would end a traffic stop by taking two steps toward his patrol car, then he would turn back and begin a new conversation with the driver to ask more questions.   The technique starts a second effort to get information and get entry to a vehicle to search for contraband.    The American Civil Liberties Union of Kansas argued that because of this practice, motorists don’t feel free to leave and end up being detained by the KHP without sufficient cause.

The ruling found KHP’s practices to be in violation of the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.   ACLU of Kansas Legal Director Sharon Brett said in a press release that the ruling validates that motorists’ rights can’t be cast aside “under the guise of a ‘war on drugs.'”

In another case, a federal judge dismissed a lawsuit alleging sexual harassment and discrimination against former KHP Superintendent Herman Jones and other KHP officials.  In a statement, new KHP Superintendent Erik Smith said he is dedicated to fair and transparent leadership and all agency members will be held to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.    The KHP said the judge’s ruling in this case will help the KHP refocus on its mission of service, courtesy and protection for the people of Kansas.