Pubdate: Thu, 28 Mar 2002
Source: Tallahassee Democrat (FL)
Copyright: 2002 Tallahassee Democrat.
Contact:  http://www.tdo.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/444
Author: Ken Weaver

POLICE NEED TO DO MORE THAN FIND DRUGS

Three years ago, my cell phone was stolen from my locked car. Even though a 
later bill showed that the thief used the phone to call some local numbers, 
the Tallahassee Police Department made no arrests and there was probably no 
investigation.

Last year, the Animal Shelter referred me to TPD to report my 7-year-old 
dog had been poisoned and died. Again, there was no investigation and the 
officer initially did not even want to make a report.

Last Sunday, I called TPD to report a kid repeatedly pelting my vehicle 
with rocks. Even though I have business there, the cop advised me to "stay 
out of this neighborhood." No investigation necessary. Great advice, officer!

Years ago, cops built resumes by investigating and solving crimes. Now, too 
many cops seem content to build resumes by simply stopping cars and doing 
consensual - and unconsensual - searches to find drugs.

I prefer the cops of yesteryear, and will not be calling TPD in the future.

KEN WEAVER
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MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager