Yes, the police often have a frustrating, dangerous job to perform. Kudos to those who manage to perform it in a sane, responsible, and professional manner. Unfortunately, too many don't. They appear to be ruled by toxic emotions, a lack of ethics, and zero professionalism. ASAP, they need to be weeded out of police ranks. All this has been obvious for years.
From the get-go, the behavior of the police toward Mr. Nichols was utterly unprofessional and toxic. Very quickly, it turned to criminal. Then it became inhumane. I don't care what Mr. Nichols did or didn't do, he never should have been treated in such a manner.
To all Police Departments everywhere:
Whenever you stop, detain, or arrest someone, that person is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, and must be treated as such. You are not a court of law. If a "suspect" argues with you, or struggles because he or she is afraid of you, or even runs from you, it is your job to resolve the situation in a humane, professional way. You are not allowed to beat the person to a pulp. If you can't handle those rules, then get out of law enforcement and stay out.
In this case, the two policemen who are pleading innocent to murder should have done everything possible to try and stop the beating of Mr. Nichols. It appears they didn't try at all.
This overall, systemic problem in law enforcement must be dealt with immediately by all police administrations. Toxic, bullying individuals must be kicked out and kept out. A code of ethics must be rigorously implemented and enforced. Failure in these matters is on the heads of those in charge of departments.
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Not only my opinion. Take Care
