I found this interesting (2009) after all the recent protests and ongoing saga with the Portland Police Department on their practices. http://www.oregonlive.com/portland/index.ssf/2009/07/use_of_force_by_portland_polic.html
I think the fact that some questionable shootings are the cause for the protests. When that happens,most people will naturally assume police brutality is up as those things cloud their judgment and objectivity. Also, remember, this is an elitist liberal city. As such, police are naturally seen as a type of enemy. Similar to members of the military or GOP (recall the numerous acts of violence targeted at GOP people in the last election in the city). Look at what liberals on this board say about police and members of the military... a definite hatred towards them all.
Being a cop is a shitty job. I can't imagine dealing with scumbags, criminals and liars for my entire career. Hell, I only lasted a decade on Wall Street.
I went on a ride along with a state cop and he was verbally abused several times in just one shift. Spit on, called a pig... it's a tough job.
In March 2008, Sizer adopted a new force policy, asking officers to use less force if possible. The directive now encourages officers to use "the least force reasonably necessary." New policy???? This used to be standard police training. How twisted and skewed from the original intent of a police force (protecting and serving the public) has Portland's become? And why is their Chief so afraid of her employees that she can only "ask" and "encourage" them to follow "directives"? What ever happened to "follow orders or hit the highway"?
I agree 100%. However, the police take their orders from the union. The cheif has to have her "orders" approved thru the union. The union will then decide what the officers will follow and what they will not.
