Would you stand with and assist the police protecting Black Lives Matter events?

2016-07-21T14:43:59-04:00

There have been pictures circulated as of late showing average civilians assisting police officers at these types of events. Would you consider helping officers in your city as well?

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Jul 21 at 2016 2:48 PM

2016-07-21T14:48:55-04:00

I would assist Law Enforcement as requested.
Who they are protecting is not germane to the question.

I would not assist rioters, thugs, criminals claiming to be protesting... I would assist and bare witness for prosecutors as deemed helpful in seeing them convicted of crimes committed.. But I would do the same should I observe an officer commit a criminal act under color of authority. ..or a Vet, or a Doc, or a 3rd grade english teacher.

Response by Capt Tom Brown made Jul 21 at 2016 7:43 PM

2016-07-21T19:43:17-04:00

I would not be anywhere near the vicinity if there were police involved in keeping order and control of any particular group which was 'getting out of hand' and force was a possibility. A good way to end up getting hauled in or even worse by mixing in law enforcement operations as a civilian. The police can call up as much manpower and force as necessary to control a given situation and me mixing in things will only muddy the waters and get in their way.

Response by MCPO Roger Collins made Jul 22 at 2016 10:41 AM

2016-07-22T10:41:02-04:00

Yes, but absolutely not if I were "carrying". In a tense situation, it's hard to tell who the bad guys are.