Joe Rowland
Tipton
Dear Editor:
After spending 28 years as a reserve deputy with a local sheriff's department, I know the majority of our peace officers want to do a good job, enforce the law and return home at the end of the shift. Unfortunately, even though they are in the majority, they aren't the ones we hear about on the news.
One of the most dangerous parts of law enforcement is the traffic stop because of all the unknowns. In this era of concealed carry, an officer never knows if the individual in the stopped vehicle will comply or if they will start shooting. For law enforcement officer to do their jobs, it is necessary for "John Q. Public" to cooperate with officers, which thankfully most of the citizens do. Unfortunately, there are a few who choose to flee from a traffic stop or fight the officer instead of obeying and complying. Running away or not complying with officers seems to be why situations escalate to deadly force. If the stopped individual would listen to the officer, comply and be cooperative, I feel there would be fewer officer-involved shootings.
We are currently living in a time where many have no respect for the police and disregard for any type of authority. Furthermore, people don't want to be held accountable for their actions or take responsibility for the choices they make. I loved my job and the joys and risks involved, but I am glad that I am now retired.