Militarization of Police

Having worked for the Dallas Police, I tend to defend police in general, having experienced them from the inside. Yes, there are some bad cops, but I think the vast majority are doing the best they can in a thankless job.

However, there are intolerable extremes and this article exemplifies a few of them.

Firstly, never, ever, in a thousand years never should a police officer on duty have his face covered or identity in any way concealed. An undercover cop infiltrating a gang is an exception, but only barely. However, no officer executing a warrant of any kind should enjoy any level of anonymity. This includes unmarked police cars. No officer empowered to apprehend a citizen should have his identity concealed by hiding the fact that he is in a police vehicle. The element of secrecy should not be a part of a police officer's tool kit.

Secondly, the so-called "no-knock" raids should be done away with except in blatantly clear incidents where it can be clearly and without a doubt demonstrated that officers had a true need for such a raid. Further, after such a raid is conducted, it should, in all cases, be reviewed by a civilian panel selected along the lines of a jury to decide the propriety of the tactic. If the panel finds it to have been unnecessary, then no evidence gained thereby can be admitted and the police must pay for all damages to the property along with a certain percentage punitive penalty.

Thirdly, the "militarization" of police forces must be brought to an immediate and shrieking halt. Police should be no better armed or protected than the civilians from whom they are chosen. The wearing of military gear and the adoption of military tactics must cease. These people are hired to enforce the law, not invade a beach head, and their training, tools and tactics must reflect this.

These changes may hinder the smooth operation of a police mission, but so be it. They are our EMPLOYEES, not our superiors. Their job may be made harder, but that's the price of liberty - something this nation is sorely lacking.