Some people are not cut out to be police officers. It’s as simple as that. Because of this fact, each agency should have a rigorous hiring process that tests the physical and mental capacities of a candidate.
The backup officer in this viral video has been heavily critiqued for her skills in the area of use of force. If I were the officer ground fighting with this suspect, I would not want my partner tap dancing around in a circle trying to use her Taser as she did. I would want her to physically engage and help subdue this guy.
In her defense, at least she tried something, but it was woefully inadequate. She looked like a helpless citizen trying to offer assistance.
WARNING: Foul language heard in video
While watching the video, I was embarrassed for the backup officer as well as police in general. I’m sure she’s a good person, otherwise she wouldn’t be out there trying. But on this day, she did not possess the ability to help her partner in need.
Although some people are not cut out to be police officers, it has nothing to do with race or gender. It has everything to do with the will and ability to survive. Law enforcement is not for everyone. As a matter of fact, it’s not for an overwhelming majority of people. Having the sheepdog mentality as well as the physical ability is unique.
The backup officer in this video might be fantastic in other aspects of the profession, but the will and ability to survive—the warrior mindset—needs to be present. If she has it, I did not see it in this brief clip. As a matter of fact, if she were my friend, I’d recommend that she look for a new line of work before she gets herself or someone else seriously injured; worse yet, killed. Imagine living with that kind of guilt because of your inability to engage?
Indeed, the ability to measure the appropriate amount of force is a challenge. Nevertheless, having the warrior mindset to engage is necessary in order to survive.
– Jim McNeff
