By Vanessa Lopez-Littleton
UCF Forum columnist
Why should I have to tell my sons to respect the police?
My sons are both military veterans, the oldest having serving in the U.S. Air Force in Afghanistan and the younger in the U.S. Army in Iraq. Both served during wartime campaigns.
I am certain my oldest son would respect the police and would comply with any instructions given, provoked or not. I worry about my younger son because he is a bit more spirited and may be more confrontational with authority he deems misplaced. I am more concerned than ever about their safety in interacting with the police as well as in some black communities across the country.
As a black parent, I have always told my sons to avoid confrontation with police officers, respect authority and know their own rights. Recent prominent cases have increased my concern about their safety, if they were to encounter a police officer.
In speaking with a member of law enforcement, I was told that many police officers have Type A personalities and are trained to demonstrate what he termed “officer presence.” His position was that the personality type combined with legal authority, confidence and training in escalation/de-escalation techniques are purposeful to defuse potential situations and to deter criminal acts.
In his opinion, what many of us have sarcastically called arrogance is considered a necessary tactic that supports their ability to be effective in their role as officers of the law.
In contrast, a retired police officer suggested there are officers who are afraid and intimidated by black men. In his opinion, this sets the stage for an increased number of confrontations and arrests.
Whether it’s “officer presence,” fear, uncertainty or some other factor, citizens deserve a system of law enforcement that is fair, unbiased and constitutional.
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