Quote:Regarding the militarization of police I won't attempt to change your opinion on the matter and I understand your viewpoint.


I feel like some "military" type equipment has become necessary for law enforcement. I don't like that but it's reality.


Police aren't policing Andy Griffith's neighborhood anymore. This isn't Mayberry. They are dealing with people that have access to explosive devices and high powered weapons. They are dealing with people that commit crimes heavily armed.


It's the way of the world.

Actually, as I'm talking this through with you and Anonymous, I'm beginning to realize that an absolute ban is not rational. A certain amount of SWAT equipment needs to be available. I will concede that.


But SWAT equipment and SWAT tactics should not be the universal gear and approach on how to deal with the citizens on a normal basis.


The two killings this week, and the publicized killings by cops over the past 5 years show me that these peace keepers are no longer thinking of themselves that way.


The militarization of equipment is not the only cause of this, but I think it plays a factor. When the police think that they are warriors based on the stuff they are getting to use, they begin to look at the society as being the enemy. This can corrupt the relationship between the community and the police...

---