Law enforcement officers deserve our respect and appreciation.
Most people would agree with that. With more and more evidence of abuse and violence by law enforcement, more people also agree that the “keepers of the peace” should be held to a much higher standard.
The recent shooting in South Carolina punctuates the need for law enforcement to do a better job of “policing” their own. The officer who killed a citizen by shooting him eight times in the back is now charged with murder. First glance indicates that is an appropriate charge.
Unfortunately, there are many “lesser” crimes by law enforcement officers which get a
pass. There is a “brotherhood” among officers that has a bias against citizen-victims, in favor of fellow officers. It serves to foster an environment of bullying and over-reach by officers with a predisposition to abuse.
Make no mistake. Law enforcement officers are largely well trained and dedicated to serving with honor and distinction. No one should paint them all as abusers of authority. BUT, that does not change the fact. There is need to do a better job at holding the abusers accountable.
Stories of law enforcement abuse are not in short supply, even in South Dakota. Most of the time, the system tends to protect law enforcement officers.
It is a very difficult challenge. Officers are killed and injured in the line of duty. Their lives are literally on the line at every traffic stop or encounter with a citizen. They never know when they may be subjected to a surprise attack which could end their life. On the other side, citizens have become fearful that they could become the victim rather than the protected.
These are troubled times which call for new measures. To those who have dedicated their lives to serve and protect, you have and deserve our heartfelt thanks. To those with a propensity to bullying and abuse of authority… find an new line of work, you are a disgrace to your uniform.
Law enforcement must be held to a higher standard.
***Gordon Howie is an author and CEO of Life and Liberty Media***
“It’s not about right or left, it’s about Right or Wrong.”
You can help:
- pitch in a few bucks… hit the “Donate” button on this page
- “friend” me on facebook for daily updates
- SHARE the articles on this site with your network
- PRAY for our State and Nation (please pray for me too, if you can)
