Police Brutality

Police brutality is one of the biggest social inequalities we face in America. We have all seen the stories and witnessed it on our local news stations, but have seen no efforts to fix this social issue. As of October 25, 2016 there has been a total of 944 deaths at the hand of police officers.

The most recent publicized act of deadly force was in Tulsa, Oklahoma were Officer Betty Shelby shot and killed Terence Crutcher for allegedly failing to follow orders and reaching into his vehicle. Though not many officers get charged for the obscure crimes they commit, Officer Shelby is now facing a first-degree murder charge.

Views on this issue are varied. Some say “Let the police do their job” and “If the police told me to do something, I’d just do it- that’s why I’d still be alive.” Others believe that if you are white you are more likely do not have to fear your life when interacting with the police.

Police officers are legally permitted to use force, but very often overstep the boundaries of law enforcement. Police brutality is a way officers hope to achieve politically desirable ends. Studies show most officers believe the legal system is failing and they feel the need to take matters into their own hands. Many view this issue differently, but I feel justice should be rightfully served by adjusting the police training academy. Choosing the right people, adding longer training and consequences for misconduct .