Patrol: Page 51

"I Don't Like, Trust, or Respect You (But I Can Work with You)"

At that moment, there was no shortage of things I could be taken to task for: insubordination, failure to document an off-duty incident, conduct unbecoming an officer, late for work, drama queen. It was then that I realized the man was really putting his ass on the line for me.

Call for Civilian Backup

Don’t be shy about asking for assistance from everyday people should you find yourself in need. You might be pleasantly surprised by their response.

Buzzkill

When you start drinking to the point that you’ve forgotten what the law is and your obligation to uphold it, then you’re not one of us.

Tricks and Treats

It’s time for my Annual Real Men (and Women) of Halloween Genius Roundup wherein I review the previous year’s sordid activities. Here are the weirdos and wackos who helped keep us employed, entertained, or emotionally spent in 2007.

Home Invasions Targeting Cops

When three suspects assaulted an off-duty LAPD officer at his Gardena, Calif., home, a police spokesperson said it was the first time he'd heard of an officer being a victim of a home invasion robbery. While that may be the case, the crime was not without precedent.

Picking Your Stops (and Keeping Them Stopped)

Some cops are in such a rush to get a car stopped that they'll let the driver they're attempting to detain dictate where the traffic stop will take place. Worse, they'll allow suspects to choreograph what happens once the cars have stopped.

Electrocution Hazard

One officer died after jumping into electrically charged water in response to cries for help from a man he thought was drowning. In trying to save the man’s life, he shared his fate.

Expensive Mistakes

Short-cutting logistics, precipitous actions, inconsistent reportage, shaky testimonies, poor evidence gathering, and lack of control. These problems and others ultimately dovetailed into an at least $24-million settlement (including attorneys’ fees) against Los Angeles County.

Making Death Notifications

Some may collapse emotionally, even become assaultive to you; others may appear apathetic, even relieved.

Protect Yourself from Blood Borne Diseases

Chandler succumbed to Hepatitis C that he contracted 18 years earlier when he was pricked by a hypodermic syringe while searching a vehicle for narcotics.

Don't Let The Little Head Think for You

Sadly, I’ve seen the pursuit of casual sex get more cops in trouble than perhaps anything else. It’s not just the cops’ fault either. It takes two to tango, after all. But it is the cop who most frequently has something to lose in the equation, and often does.

Talking 'Em Up to Take 'Em In

It might not be dialogues with Plato, but sometimes striking up a conversation with strangers can offer up all forms of enlightenment.

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