I find it very useful to ask the person I just sparred with what they saw. Also sparring with a more experinced fighter and ask them before you start to help you with telegraphing.
I would check the departments policy on RNC, a lot of deparments don't allow any type of chokes unless deadly force is justified. It may be hard to defend your self in court if you choke someone out while in a dominate postion ie on the back.
I was taught that you look down when you bow to people whom you trust completely because you are bearing your neck showing your trust. Everyone else you keep your eyes on.
I agree that you did the right thing. I would have to think there was something wrong with you if you were not a litte apprehenisive in the situation. Nature gave us gut feeling about things for a reason.