A cop once pulled me over for suspicious behavior and found that I had $5,000, which I proved was obtained through a scholarship. The officer explained to me the general concept of a vehicle being "flagged" for suspicious behavior, but how long does this flag stays in the DPS database? Does the flag disappear since I have a different car? How does being "flagged" affect law enforcement officers' handling of any future traffic stops I may be involved in?

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  • May 3, 2026 at 5:04 am #33969 Reply
    Barry Neal Cooper
    Keymaster
    [ARCHIVE QUESTION]
    Originally asked in NGB forums:
    May 3, 2026 at 6:07 am #34079 Reply
    Barry Neal Cooper
    Keymaster

    [ARCHIVE ANSWER]

    Unless DPS has a new system, he was lying to you. The only "flagging" capability would be to report you to EPIC (El Paso Intelligence Center) which keeps records of smuggler activities. Having $5,000 cash on you with no history of smuggling is not enough to be placed in EPIC.
    I am only aware of DPS having access to your criminal history, driver's license, and auto information through NCIC and TCIC (National Crime Intelligence Center and Texas Crime Intelligence Center.) Neither of these systems has a place for officers to "enter" suspicious activity.
    It sounds to me like you are safe.

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Reply To: A cop once pulled me over for suspicious behavior and found that I had $5,000, which I proved was obtained through a scholarship. The officer explained to me the general concept of a vehicle being "flagged" for suspicious behavior, but how long does this flag stays in the DPS database? Does the flag disappear since I have a different car? How does being "flagged" affect law enforcement officers' handling of any future traffic stops I may be involved in?
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