[Grady Clay]

I’ll have to stand with fastpat here.

I think most will agree that “no-knock” raids by police are over used and too often lead to innocent people killed. That situation could use far more oversight. In fact I dislike SWAT for another reason – the black garb and hoods smack of criminals. I would like to see the dress more appropriate. Dark “official” blue with name and badge number in place over the body armor. No hoods and a running personal video/audio/time/GPS recorder (like most cell phones).

I think what fastpat is objecting to is (perish the thought that I should speak for him) the military attitude that is brought to civilian law enforcement. I think this a worthwhile concern.

I will expand that thought somewhat.

Is there a connection with our government permitting (encouraging) torture and secret detention of “terrorists” by Federal agents and US military and the attitude of civilian law enforcement. A “trickle down effect” so to speak.

If it is OK for a Fed to do this; what is the message that sends to an FBI agent, the SS, our State Police, my County Sheriff or even the college library security guard (who Tasered a student three times for not having his library card).


The military experience has been wonderful for most. I think it is great that our ex-military are trained for a life in civilian world. I have to agree with fastpat that similar effort used training for the military needs to be applied on returning to civilian life. We don’t need soldier attitude as policemen – or anywhere else in civilian life.

Best,
Grady