You'll note I never said or suggested the officer did the right thing here. Everything doesn't always go by the book in this life. I see the officer as not wanting to take this guys life when he very easily could have done so. Shows he's human. People need to see that side too. In fact anyone wanting this cop disciplined would probably not like the publicity which would quickly follow.
I don't buy the political fallout he'd face for the reason he was holding back. The officer probably went with what he was told just prior to the encounter.
Very odd ending...The suspect is very lucky to be alive but should be dead. And cop restores faith in some, while others consider him an risky idiot.
I apologize if I misunderstood anything you said. I enjoyed the conversation.
Have a good day.