It is twenty seven years since I took off my police uniform, but each time I see in the news that another police officer has been shot I find myself right back there. It feels personal. Even worse is the gut twisting feelings I have when I hear of a death where Police were involved.

There has been talk for many years about arming the police; policing has always been dangerous. But each day as you don your uniform and step out to serve the community you fully understand the risks. The recent shooting of two policemen and a police dog in Christchurch is shocking and unacceptable, but should not cloud our judgment. We cannot fall prey to the fear and emotion of this terrible incident and be manipulated into giving the police increased access to firearms. Research indicates that arming the police would not mean less, but more deaths. Studies from the States have shown that the only gun present in many shooting incidents was brought to the scene by the police.

Since my days, public perception of the police has changed.  Police were seen as a benign professional organization whose main purpose was to serve, care and protect. Now Police are seen as something to be avoided, a “force” that is separate, punitive and aggressive. The majority of people the police interact with are ordinary law abiding members of the community.  The Community and Police should be able to work together recognizing the humanity (or Christ) in each other. In my experience the uniform alone already creates a barrier. To add a gun would create a gulf too large, after all a gun exists for the sole purpose of killing; nothing else.

If we want a better society and work towards the fulfillment of the Kingdom of God we should de-escalate the arms race not escalate it.

I am reminded of Jesus’ response when Peter cut off the ear of the high priest servant.
‘When Jesus followers saw what was going to happen they said “Lord should we strike with our swords?” And one of them struck the servant of the high priest cutting off his right ear. But Jesus answered “No more of this” And he touched the man’s ear and healed him’. (Lk22:49-52)

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1 Comment

@spiritedcrone
Jul 19, 2010 7:46