Police have been scrutinized in recent years over their use of force. Within the last few days, the murders of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile have raised concerns over the use of force in the United States Police Force. Police in this county have way too much power and it needs to change. We need police reform.
1. Police are given too much power.
With guns, tasers and stun guns, police in the United States have enough weapons to take down multiple people at once. Police wear specific outfits, aimed at maintaining easy access for civilians in trouble. When asked about the use of police uniforms, Damian Zach, who is trying to get into the police force, said, “Seeing a uniform definitely deters people from committing crimes but if a cop is in civilian clothes and someone commits a crime, they could possibly respond better since the criminal didn't know there was a cop.” While cops need weapons to maintain safety and order, they will not use them correctly without proper training. In addition, the use of police uniforms is necessary, but not to the extent that they are worn today.
2. Police work too much.
Long work hours as a public servant (catching murderers, protecting children from pedophiles, etc.) can cause psychological disorders and morbidity. Rather than having police officers who already work an overly stressful job work well over the 40-hour work week, police need to be given adequate time off and continuous training in their job field.
3. Police are put on a pedestal.
Because their job is to “protect and serve,” police are given the go-around in regards to various crimes. Trayvon Martin was murdered in 2012 by a police officer who was later acquitted of the murder. Just a few years after this, he sold the gun he used to murder Martin. In another instance, a police officer had admitted to lying countless times and locking up innocent people was finally put away for his crimes - but for only a short 16 months. If police are given special treatment, they will continue to break the law knowing that the repercussions of their actions are smaller than regular citizens.
