Police

If you can say, “I can’t breath”…

The first thing that jumps to mind in the death of Eric Garneris that somebody who is repeatedly saying “I can’t breath” is, in fact, breathing. It’s a basic rules of choking, first aid, and well, the way we speak. [Update: Seems I’m probably very wrong about this.] Also, I’m no expert in chokeholds (because most departments forbid them), but…

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Police

NYPD Aims Better in 2012

It’s being reportedthat fatal NYPD police-involved shootings were way up in 2012. They are, but it’s a non-story. Indeed, fatal police-involved shootings increased from 9 to 16, but better aim and luck were probably the reasons why. Police-involved shootings were only up by 2, to 30. (And this even though the average distance from which officers shot was further away…

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Police

Can you say “Contagion Shooting”?

They then opened fire. The authorities would not estimate how many rounds were discharged. Mr. Gainer, the sergeant-at-arms, said he believed that five to seven officers had fired. Possible Clues in Fatal Chase, but No Motive — Miriam Carey Was in Car When Police Fired, Official Says

Police

Good Cop

The Reese Witherspoon arrest on video. You know what I like? Reese: “I have to obey your order?!” Officer: “Yes, you do. Well done, officer. Well handled. Grace under pressure. Witherspoon: “Do you know my name… You’re about to find out who am I.” Officer: “That’s fine. I’m not really worried about you, Ma’am.” … Witherspoon: “I’m an American citizen,…

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Police

Why did Robert Ethan Saylor die?

My colleague at John Jay College, James Mulvaney, had a good op-ed in the Washington Post last month about a tragic and unnecessary death in Central Maryland. As both a former police officer and a former movie theater usher, I can’t help but think Prof. Mulvaney get’s it right. You can read it here: Where is the public outrage over…

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Police

Another Day at the Office (III) — Pain Compliance

This is news that shouldn’t be: officers arrest a resisting suspect and for their efforts get splashed on the news for alleged brutality. At least the B.P.D. didn’t flinch. I say eighty percent of videos that purport to show brutality involve people under arrest who won’t put their hands behinds behind their back. If you’re under arrest and so ordered,…

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