Cheating death and fighting communism: that is how a fellow officer once described our job. It was meant to be funny, but as time went on it seemed all too true.
I spent more than ten years in law enforcement, all of it on the street in uniform patrol. I've been a patrol officer, instructor, sergeant and lieutenant.
Do not report crimes here. Nothing here should be considered legal advice. All opinions are my own.
Of course. Putting others in reasonable fear for their safety could be classified as assault, brandishing or some other crime depending on the state.
A gun in a holster cannot put others in reasonable fear for their safety unless it is combined with some other act on the part of the carrier (like saying "I'm going to kill you" while reaching for it.) However, waving a gun around or pointing it at someone is not lawful open carry. It is stupid, reckless and possibly criminal.
It could be civil or criminal. You should contact your local police department to see if it is a crime.
I did go to a university to study aerospace engineering. I changed majors to criminal justice, though that was a mistake. Some type of college degree may be needed to be hired, but I strongly suggest getting a degree in something not related to law enforcement. I cover some of the reasons above, but generally, you need skills beyond police work in the event you leave the job (maybe you decide police work is not right for you, you are injured and can't work, etc.)
Thanks for the props. But, I am just a man, and do not compare to Jesus. He is the Lord.
Yes, it is completely reasonable for officers to call out of state family members in an effort to find out where someone is. I don't know what the circumstances were in this case, but if I found a car parked illegally near a body of water, I might be concerned that:
- someone is broken down and in need of help,
- someone has a mental health or depression issue and could be a danger to themselves (I've seen a lot of people gravitate toward the water when looking to harm themselves),
- the car has been involved in some type of crime where the owner/family member was a victim.
I don't know what the circumstances were, nor do either of us know what the officers were observing on scene. Sounds like the family member was ok, so it sounds like it all worked out.
Sushi Chef
How do sushi chefs tell when a fish has gone bad? Is it just the smell?Air Traffic Controller
When would you order fighter jets to be scrambled?Antiques Dealer
If you buy an item that turns out to be stolen, do you have to turn it over to the police?
Not really different methods, just a different priority. In such a circumstance, that call should be prioritized and the next available unit(s) would be dispatched.
Keep in mind that even under the best of circumstances, police will still be minutes away. You have to be responsible for your own safety and survival. The old phrase "when seconds count, police are only minutes away" is true. It is simply impossible for officers to be everywhere, and the idea that they can protect you as an individual is a myth.
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