[Mr 5 0]

I agree with Robocop.

We need obviously need police enforcement of our laws more than ever, that's a given.

Most cops are decent people but the 'system' does change you for the worse. You deal with society's underbelly most of the time and the court system often makes all your work of catching a criminal and getting the proof you need to convict him thrown away on a technicality or with a no-jail plea bargain deal.

Of course every profession has a few nuts and weirdos but the nuts and weirdos with a badge can ruin your life with a felony charge or even kill you if you cross them so they are dangerous and should be weeded out promptly, but often are not, especially in smaller, politically-driven police departments.

The danger to a police officer is very real and present but one must also take into account that this is a job the officer applied for. He/she took tests to get into the academy and basically volunteered for it and often loves or at least doesn't wish to leave 'the force'. That doesn't make the danger any less real or deserved in any way, just a reminder that no one is forced to be a cop. There are other professions.

Finally, most law-abiding people only see a cop when they are pulled over for speeding or some other traffic infraction. It's scary (admit it) and of course no one wants an expensive ticket so we tend to see the cop as a bully, bad guy, whacko, mean, etc.

Maybe some are - they're human - but mostly it's just the negative impression we get from only dealing with the police when we're on the 'wrong side' of the (traffic) law. Understandable.

Police do a very dangerous, frustrating and necessary job in society. I respect them and I also respect their power and don't go out of my way to annoy them, as some do, thinking this shows how 'No one tells them what to do'. Right.

I believe that the smart, ambitious cops do the job right, stay out of trouble and move up the promotion ladder fairly quickly so the cops you meet on the street are not always the cream of the force, as it were. Something to keep in mind.

Chris, thanks for the post. Moving and informative and it reminds that behind the badge and the uniform is a vulnerable human being, doing a tough job, not getting rich, risking his life and too often being vilified for what he does.