As I read more about the details of the local police chief’s actions, I find his excuses hard to believe.
First, he was out of uniform when he assaulted a 74-year-old man in his own driveway. He described the incident as “assisting” the man to the ground.
When I think of assisting someone, I think of a Boy Scout helping someone across a busy road.
Was the gentleman planning on throwing himself to the ground and the officer was merely there to offer his help?
Because the officer could not identify the driver, who was now in her own home, a few friendly questions, other than physical contact, was the most interaction that should have taken place.
I support all police until I learn about obvious twisting of the truth. He had absolutely no business laying a hand on this man. If anyone else put someone to the ground, it would be an arrestable offense.
Just because the couple refused to press charges does not change the fact that the officer violated the man’s rights.
Insult to injury is the chief’s statement that he would not have done anything different. So I guess as the department leader, we can expect him and all his minions to continue to violate the Constitution.
I thank the two officers who brought his actions to light.
The fact is that the police department escaped what could have been a hefty lawsuit at the taxpayers’ expense.
We expect law enforcement to honor the Constitution and keep their egos in check, if they want to earn our respect.
