Opinion

Focus on behavior, not police weaponry

Posted May 24, 2015 6:01 am

There certainly is military equipment that should not be used by police departments, i.e. bayonets, grenade launchers, etc. However, placing surplus armored personnel carriers, Humvees and other protective equipment that assists police departments and public agencies with protecting officers, business owners and citizens from the very "occupying force" that President Obama mentioned seems prudent.

I am struck by the irony when he stated that the heavily armed police "alienate and intimidate local residents and send the wrong message." Is it the police or rather the criminal element he is referring to?

The president is amazingly trying to shift the blame for violent behavior as opposed to conveying that lawlessness such as looting, destroying government property, taunting police officers, etc. is unacceptable. Our country and society would be better served if the president emphasized social responsibility and lawful behavior. However well intended, this president is lowering the bar and pushing the pendulum in the wrong direction.

Mark Hannan

Wheaton

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