Badge of Honor: An Alternate Perspective

By Beverly A. Brewster LLM, MPA

Badge of Honor goes beyond mere analysis, offering insights into officers' daily challenges while on duty. It explores the repercussions of calls to defund the police, revealing the adverse impacts of departmental cutbacks that impede officers and detrimentally affect the quality of life for the communities they serve.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: Apr 29, 2024
• ISBN: 9798350957679

Beverly A. Brewster LLM, MPA

Beverly Brewster is an expert in international law. Her passion for the rule of law stretches far beyond, grounded in the firm belief of law as an essential pillar of democracy. As a researcher, her proficient communication skills, meticulous eye for detail, and critical thinking abilities uniquely position her to contribute to her chosen field. Brewster is an avid reader, traveler, and cultural enthusiast who identifies with the world's cosmopolitan facets. Given her belief that global integration is essential for a better world, she tirelessly invests time in learning about various cultures and seeks to foster global unity. Brewster holds multiple degrees, demonstrating her commitment to education and excellence. She earned her most recent degree, a Master of Public Administration focusing on International Inspection and oversight, from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York, graduating in 2021. Beverly Brewster is also a member of Pi Alpha Alpha, the International Honor Society for Public Affairs and Administration. Prior to that, she studied at the University of Kent's Brussels School of International Studies, earning a Master of Law in International Law with International Relations. Additionally, Beverly holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Criminal Justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Complementing her impressive academic background, Brewster has a diverse professional background. As Director of the Foundation for Policing and Justice since January 2019, Brewster liaises with the public, civic organizations, and elected officials as an advocate for law enforcement.

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©2024 Beverly A. Brewster LLM, MPA. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

ISBN: 979-8-35094-369-6 paperback

ISBN: 979-8-35095-767-9 eBook

Contents

Preface

Introduction

1. Assault on Law Enforcement

2. Crime and Legislators’ Complacency

3. The Rule of Law

4. Police vs. Civilians

5. Protest and shootings

6. 911 and Mental Health Calls

7. Alleged Police Brutality

8. Juvenile Delinquency

9. Gun Violence

10. Incarceration: A Catastrophe

11. The Civilian Complaint Review Board: Balancing Oversight with Fairness

12. Mending a Broken System

References

About Beverly A. Brewster

Preface

In 2020, a surge in protests against social injustice unfolded, igniting a vigorous demand for justice on behalf of minority groups who perceived themselves as victims of police brutality. Amidst this clamor, there was a notable absence of advocacy for law enforcement officers who fell prey to criminals, some of whom paid the ultimate price in the line of duty. Calls reverberated for the defunding of the police coupled with an insistence on optimal service delivery from law enforcement agencies. This book delves into the reasons behind the diminishing influence of the rule of law, aiming to unravel this complex issue and propose viable solutions.

Badge of Honor goes beyond mere analysis, offering insights into officers’ daily challenges during their duties. It explores the repercussions of calls to defund the police, revealing the adverse impacts of departmental cutbacks that impede officers and detrimentally affect the quality of life for citizens.

Furthermore, this book scrutinizes the harmful consequences of Bail Reform, illustrating the catastrophic effects on officers and the very communities they diligently strive to protect. Throughout these pages, the men and women in law enforcement emerge as symbols of honor, unwavering in their commitment to upholding the rule of law. As this narrative unfolds, it aims to answer persistent questions and offer actionable solutions for those in a position to effect change within the criminal justice system.

Introduction

Police officers stand as the bedrock of community safety, consistently displaying a commitment to ensuring the well-being of residents in various neighborhoods. Their presence, marked by impartiality and fairness, cannot be understated, as without their diligent oversight, the fabric of security that blankets our communities might quickly unravel, leaving individuals susceptible to a myriad of criminal activities. Often unrecognized for their multifaceted roles, these officers address crime head-on and morph into immediate responders during natural calamities, unexpected political unrest, or broader societal shifts. Their unwavering commitment to serve holds firm, regardless of public sentiment, and extends even to those corners of our society that might sometimes perceive their presence as overbearing, particularly in poor localities.

One of the most prevalent misconceptions in contemporary discourse is the perceived ineffectiveness or even detriment of police presence in lower-income communities. Often armed with anecdotal evidence, critics challenge the essence of policing in such areas. They inadvertently overlook or downplay officers’ profound impact in curtailing criminal activities, bridging community gaps, and shaping safer, more inclusive spaces for residents. Instead, the spotlight, fueled by certain media narratives, invariably shifts towards isolated incidents, which, though concerning, are not always representative of broader policing principles. These episodes, frequently labeled under the broad banner of police brutality, usually arise in tense situations when suspects might resist arrest, employ confrontational language, or perhaps fail to heed officers’ immediate directives.

With the proliferation of social media and the instantaneity of news dissemination, such confrontational instances, particularly when they involve marginalized groups and communities, can swiftly escalate into viral phenomena. While they undoubtedly warrant scrutiny and reflection, the sheer magnitude of their exposure, often sans context, can sow seeds of distrust. This atmosphere of lingering suspicion invariably complicates the already intricate role of the police, making community outreach, rapport building, and daily operations more daunting.

This book seeks to embark on a nuanced journey, striving to strike a harmonious balance between understanding the genuine concerns of the public and explaining the daily tribulations that police officers navigate. It aspires to dissect, with objectivity, the often-skewed representation of these stalwart securities, attempting to paint a fuller, more holistic picture of the men and women who wear the ‘Badge of Honor.’ Further, this narrative will illuminate the external pressures stemming from particular interest groups, evolving legislation, or societal dynamics that can sometimes obstruct the smooth execution of police duties.

Examining these multi-dimensional facets of policing, this book aims to foster a more informed dialogue, emphasizing law enforcement’s indispensable role while giving voice to valid societal concerns. Through this balanced exploration, readers may sincerely hope to gain a more enriched understanding of the delicate dance between policing, community welfare, and the challenges of our times.

Chapter 1

Assault on Law Enforcement

Law enforcement plays a pivotal role in upholding the foundation of any civilized society. By ensuring adherence to the rule of law , protecting democratic values, and safeguarding citizens and their properties from potential harm, officers maintain a delicate balance. However, the modern era has seen law enforcement face unprecedented challenges from criminals and changes within the criminal justice system.

According to the Federal Bureau of Investigations’ (FBI) Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) report from 2019, 17,188 police officers suffered injuries due to assaults while performing their duties. A combination of factors contributes to this rising tide of violence against officers. Urban settings, particularly in major cities, have seen an uptick in clashes stemming from protests, illegal immigration-related issues, and gang violence.

The social and political landscape has been notably affected by the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement and the activities of various extremist factions. While these groups raise pertinent issues about police reform and racial injustice, the conversation has, at times, veered towards a narrative that portrays law enforcement officers in a predominantly negative light. This chapter delves into the influence these groups may have in cultivating an environment that seems to condone, or even encourage, the assaults and senseless killings of officers in their line of duty.

It is essential to keep in mind that although a few officers may act inappropriately, generalizing the entire police force based on those improper actions is not accurate or fair. The actions of a minority should not dictate the reputation of the majority, who diligently serve their communities. Law enforcement agencies can be instrumental in bridging divides, fostering community trust, and collaboratively working towards a more inclusive society. However, the political and societal milieu must be conducive for these potential outcomes to materialize.

Police officers require comprehensive training, resources, and the support of their communities and political leaders to effect positive change. It is time to shift the conversation from assigning blame to understanding and collaboration. By supporting law enforcement and ensuring they have the resources and training to adapt to modern challenges, society can pave the way for a more harmonious future. Only by working together can communities and the police transcend the current adversities and achieve their shared objectives.

Attacks on Law Enforcement

The US has experienced a surge of public attention surrounding incidents of alleged police violence. One notable incident that catalyzed this wave of scrutiny was the case involving the tragic shooting of Michael Brown by a police officer in Ferguson, Missouri, in 2014. This event brought the issue of police conduct into focus. The aftermath of his fatal encounter with law enforcement sparked outrage and triggered widespread protests. Following these widespread demonstrations, a disturbing pattern of violence targeted toward officers followed. The direct consequence was a shocking escalation in physical assaults on officers, a trend underscored by chilling statistics. The FBI and (LEOKA) in 2015 noted a staggering increase of nearly 100 percent in the number of officers fatally injured due to assaults while on duty.

The LEOKA report is an invaluable resource that annually compiles data on law enforcement officers killed or assaulted during their service. The inception of LEOKA in 1996 was driven by the FBI’s intent to equip law enforcement agencies with insights into the nature and extent of the risks their officers face. This empirical evidence assists in investigating potential danger zones and devising preventive strategies. The importance of LEOKA’s function becomes even more pronounced against the rising hostility toward the police. The analysis reveals an alarming trend: a marked escalation in violent incidents targeting law enforcement personnel.

To fully understand the complexity and depth of the current sentiment against the police, it is pivotal to revisit past events. The 1991 Rodney King incident in Los Angeles is a significant precursor. The graphic recording of LAPD officers brutally assaulting King, an African American individual, propelled the city into turmoil. The ensuing riots underscored the deep-rooted issues of police conduct and racial tension.

However, the reactions were not confined to Ferguson; demonstrations rapidly expanded to various cities. Emotions ran high when, later that year, a grand jury decided against indicting the officer involved in Brown’s demise. In a parallel case in New York, another grand jury refrained from indicting officers associated with Eric Garner’s unfortunate death. These events became a turning point, leading to many comparable incidents nationwide in the following years.

The continual media coverage of these events has further fanned the flames, making police-civilian interactions a regular headline. The repeated exposure to such distressing narratives has transformed the discourse surrounding law enforcement, emphasizing the critical nature of police accountability and the urgent need for reforms. The evolving dynamics between the public and law enforcement is a systemic issue requiring in-depth examination. Balancing the need for law enforcement while ensuring just and fair treatment for all is a current societal challenge.

The narrative surrounding police violence and its repercussions on communities, often amplified by media coverage, tends to focus mainly on the victims and the resultant demonstrations. However, an equally critical but less frequently discussed aspect is the retaliatory violence against police officers, seemingly influenced by such media portrayals.

Following high-profile police shootings, significant instances of retaliatory violence against law enforcement have occurred. For example, on July 5, 2016, Alton Sterling met a tragic end in Baton Rouge; similarly, Philando Castile was fatally shot in St. Paul a day later. These incidents ignited demonstrations, notably in Baltimore, New York, and other cities. As these protests occasionally intensified into violent clashes, media outlets provided extensive coverage, reflecting the rising tensions (Schouten & Brennan, 2016).

However, in the aftermath of these incidents and amidst the media frenzy, a chilling series of coordinated attacks targeting law enforcement transpired. Only two days after the shootings mentioned above, Dallas, Texas, was the backdrop for an orchestrated assault on police officers. This attack tragically claimed five officers’ lives and injured nine others. A similarly chilling event occurred in Baton Rouge shortly after, where another calculated assault resulted in three officers losing their lives, with three more severely wounded.

In both instances, the assailants were African American military veterans. A closer examination of their motives revealed profound anger and resentment stemming from the police shootings involving African American individuals. These feelings, exacerbated by the prevailing atmosphere and possibly the media coverage, drove these individuals towards acts of vengeance against law enforcement. Such retaliatory violence underscores the need for balanced narratives and discussions that promote understanding and cohesion rather than division.

The recent wave of attacks on police officers, coupled with the media’s intense focus on reports of police brutality, has fostered a prevalent perception that officers are targeted due to their perceived corruption and aggression. The incidents in Dallas and Baton Rouge are particularly illustrative of this. The timing between the media reports and the subsequent violent episodes in these cities makes it hard to dismiss a potential connection. Further fueling this narrative are the assailants’ accounts of their motives, which appear to be directly influenced by these reports. Moreover, data from Rasmussen’s reinforces this sentiment. According to Rasmussen’s research in 2015, 58 percent of the US populace believed law enforcement was confronting systematic violent resistance. Many went as far as labeling this confrontation a war against police. Such statistics underscore the depth of the public’s concerns, and the challenges police departments face in maintaining trust amidst such perceptions.

Recently, a noticeable surge in sentiments opposing law enforcement has emerged, significantly influencing public discourse. Movements such as BLM and Defund the Police have become prominent, advocating for a significant overhaul of law enforcement, if not a complete disbandment. These movements often pinpoint systemic corruption and violence as core issues within the policing system. However, a later chapter of this book counters these claims, positing that such arguments are rooted in flawed logic and are empirically unsupported.

Nonetheless, the influence