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It seems to me the broader issue is this; should we accept the direction of a law enforcement officer because we respect them or because we fear them?

The reality is that you almost NEVER see a police officer arrested and convicted of assault, no matter how egregious the behavior. The police have little or no incentive to exercise restraint. Far too often we see the application of force that goes way beyond what is necessary to ensure the officer's safety. There seems to be the attitude that officers are entitled to leap into the punishment phase of law enforcement by turning any challenge to the authority of an officer into a *perceived* threat.

In no way am I suggesting that all police officers are prone to the use of excessive force. What I WILL say is that most of them make poor choices when faced with the decision whether to protect their own or act in a manner that contributes to the integrity of the police force and earns the respect and cooperation of the citizenry.

Bottom line for me? You're wasting your time demanding my respect. You earn it or you go without.

by Jim on May 28, 2011 11:07 am • link • report