Before I say this, please know that I am not bashing cops. I know and respect lots of cops, some of whom I would trust with my life, my wealth, and my family. I've also known some of the other kind, but I take care not to keep such acquaintances close.austinrealtor wrote:Gigag04, you weren't there and don't know the details beyond what handog has told us all here on the forum. Handog, you have made your case on this forum against RRPD and further discussion of it - especially bashing the police, however subtle it may seem to you - can be offensive to the "good cops" out there (and I have to assume that gigag04 is one of the good cops), and can also be offensive to those of us who respect the badge. I don't think you intend to bash all cops, and I do believe your axe to grind is specifically with the RRPD and the particular officers involved.
That said, there are two distinct views of what makes a "good cop". One side, which is the majority, thinks a "good cop" is one who doesn't blatantly violate your rights, doesn't take bribes, and only pushes the bounds of the 4th Amendment within the limits allowed by courts and common practice.
The other side thinks a "good cop" is one who not only knows there are bad cops, he's furious about it. This "good cop", who isn't very popular with other cops, won't look the other way, won't lie, and won't automatically give other cops the benefit of the doubt.
I know that sounds awfully harsh, and might even prickle some feelings, but that's not my intent. I just want to show that there's a lot more to being a "good cop" than just not being a "bad cop".