A very disturbing video of a recent police SWAT raid. (Warning: Strong language and violence.)
It isn't the first time a cop has gone trigger happy on a dog, but note that in this incident they discharged weapons in close confines with women and children present. Shoot-first-and-ask-questions-later cops are as dangerous to the public as pistol-packing drug dealers, and can destroy the public's trust in their law enforcement forces. If I were the Colombia, Missouri, Police Chief, a few folks would be looking for a job right about now.
I understand we need to get violent criminals off the streets. I want them off. And if some punk wants to resist with force, the police should have overwhelming force at their disposal to deal with him (or her). But that overwhelming force should be used only when absolutely necessary. Not every initiated contact with the public should be presumed a potential CQB firefight, and where a violent response is not likely this type of 'commando' raid is unnecessary. It is - no pun intended - overkill. I have been uneasy with for some time with the ongoing militarization of our civilian police forces, and the default use of military tactics in dealing with crime. (Does SWAT really need ot be decked out in military camouflage? I mean, really??) This kind of thing proves my worries are justified.
Hattip: Reason Magazine via Instapundit.
2 comments:
D'OH!!! Thanks, McGoo.
Its not just the military clothing but 'what' that clothing is.
They ALWAYS wear black often with 'police' not showing on the front or in small letters.
Black is the color associated with bad guys.
Who would YOU think it was if a bunch of guys dressed in black kicked down your door?
Police in Shreveport Louisiana have learned that groups of young black males are dressing as SWAT teams and are going around raiding drug houses.
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