Assignment #8

Police Brutality: Problem in America?

This may be silly, me talking about police brutality on the account that my mother worked in law enforcement for over 20 years before retiring a few years back. She worked for the Department of Defense and protected famous people and the Vice President of the United States. I respect those who do their job with honor and integrity. I was always proud of my mother, but was always afraid she wouldn't come home the same night. But, I have always been upset about stories of people being abused at the hands of those who are there to protect the people. Don't get things twisted, I'm not against police in general, but I hate the bad ones who abuse their power. So, what is "police brutality"? Well, to simply put it, its the use of excessive force. The invading of civil rights, and the belittling of citizens only to exalt and abuse their power. David Mangan in a article, "Police Brutality: The Use Of Excessive Force", puts it this way:


"A significant problem in this area is that police behavior is abusive of civilian rights, but it is also considered necessary and appropriate police procedure (Geller, 1996:7). In many cases police go too far when they excessively punch, kick, beat, and shoot people who pose no threat. Injuries and sometimes death result from police use of restraints, chemical spays, electro-shock weapons, batons, dogs, flashlights, radios, and guns (AIUSA Rights 1999. 1-3)".

Unfortunately, this behavior is seen throughout the U.S, and seems to be getting worse. The latest information I could find on police brutality was in 2010. According to National Police Brutality Statistics: From April 2009 to June 2010, 5,986 reports of misconduct has been recorded. And, there are agencies that are seeing more misconduct then others. The top 5 highest misconduct rates by agency are Palm Beach County, FL, New Orleans, LA, Boston, MA,  Forth Worth, TX and (ironically) Baltimore, MD. Is this a problem? YES! The numbers are rising and remember, all misconduct is not reported! So, how is this issue solved? Well, I believe police departments need tougher regulations and stiffer penalties for misbehavior. But, usually they'll either not comment or will back up their cops, for the sake of not looking bad. This must stop, but I believe it will get worse. As citizens we must do all we can the madness!

  .