I cannot remember a time when there has been more anti law enforcement sentiment circulating through our society. It is not surprising coming from the anarchist who hijack legal and lawful 1st amendment demonstrations only to vandalize, loot, and assault officers. What is particularly disturbing is the rhetoric being spewed by some media outlets, some elected politicians, and some who claim to be faith based or community leaders. Many of these organizations and these individuals are simply fanning the flames of discord and are attempting to drive a wedge between peace officers and the communities we serve.
The assassination of two NYPD uniformed officers along with the ambushed killings of officers in Florida and North Carolina coupled with the attempted ambush killings of LAPD officers have shaken our profession to the core. When did those who “serve and protect” become the enemy and when did it become open season on us simply because we wear the uniform? It is the police that are out on the streets answering the calls for help, protecting the vulnerable in our society, and protecting life and property. This is a never ending assignment, 24/7, 365 days a year. We have taken an oath to protect and serve and we shall not waiver from it.
In this edition of the Journal there are a number of articles related to current events surrounding law enforcement in Missouri, in New York, and here in San Francisco. There are some very relevant positions made in these articles with questions that I hope will be answered in the near future. The peace officers of this country are not the enemy.
To my brothers and sisters in the SFPD and all of law enforcement I say: stay vigilant, back each other up on the street, stay united, stay safe, but most of all stay strong and proud of your profession.
Slainte!
