I like your actual scenario. I would probably have done the same as you, and yes it would probably be absurd to actually pay a lawyer money for that situation.

I like your actual scenario. I would probably have done the same as you, and yes it would probably be absurd to actually pay a lawyer money for that situation. Less absurd to just refuse to talk without a lawyer (This refusal does not obligate you to actually go get a lawyer unless and until you get some sort of subpoena or summons, or are arrested) In this case you had a cop who is actually willing to go back-and-forth with you until you discovered what was going on. Absent that, you absolutely would be right to say something like, “without knowing what’s going on here I can’t answer any questions.” Your initial example of “you look like a criminal we’re searching for” is way more fraught with pitfalls that can be avoided by not cooperating. Also, I should be more “assertive” at work…