3 Reasons Why We Need Police Reform
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

3 Reasons Why We Need Police Reform

The recent murders of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile have sparked a conversation on police reform.

2764
3 Reasons Why We Need Police Reform
widerimage.reuters.com

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.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
the beatles
Wikipedia Commons

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

Keep Reading...Show less
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

19 Lessons I'll Never Forget from Growing Up In a Small Town

There have been many lessons learned.

71536
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

133515
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments