>There has to be a middle road though. I can imagine if this
>was a black dude he probably would have treated the dude
>having his hands in his pocket alot differently.
>
>I imagine protocol would have been a pat down very early on
>before lowering his guard.

this officer made several crucial mistakes:

- he responded to a domestic violence call alone
- failure to recognize the inherent danger of an unknown suspect who fled the scene
- left the scene, only to return (after consulting a sr officer - his father) without frisking/patting down the suspect for weapons.

its obvious that the officer was a bit leery and nervous, as he continued to ask if the suspect is carrying any weapons. its unfortunate that this happened, but this is why veteran training officers stress the dangers of the "unknown." failure to recognize this danger can lead to tragic circumstances. unfortunately for this officer, that's exactly what happened.

police officers should always approach people in a reasonably professional manner, with regards to the nature of the call/situation. at the same time, citizen should always recognize that any officer responding to an emergency call can/will/should treat everyone on the scene as a potential danger UNTIL each person present has been properly frisked & vetted.

*we ALL need to search for better ways to ensure the safety of everyone (citizens, officers, etc). this isn't about proving a point or winnin' an argument for any agenda. its about making sure everyone has a legitimate opportunity to live/work and make it home safely every night.



*skatin' the rings of saturn*


..and miles to go before i sleep...

*STU*