You said"You're absolutely right, especially when you stop and realize that the vast majority of members in the 180,000 police agencies are Barnie Fife clones. Now, THAT thought should keep you awake at night!"
Don't forget that they have been SELECTED for those characteristics and mis-trained,hobbled, and misled by those in charge. Any officer who uses common sense and initiative is in danger of violating dept rules and asinine court decisions. Law enforcement officers can only do exactlly as told,unlike a peace officer of a commonwealth who could take reasonable action. You can't write a book of instructions detailed for evey scenario, the best you can do is encourage and reward good judgment.
" You can't write a book of instructions detailed for every scenario, the best you can do is encourage and reward good judgment."
- You're absolutely right of course. I was painting with a broad brush to mix a little humor into my point that if you're a police officer, "nuance" is a character trait that is not highly valued or even needed as far as that goes. When you deal with the dregs of humanity on a daily basis, you tend to stop thinking in shades of gray.