It is no longer just those at the margins of society who are losing respect for the police. Here in NC, the head of the State Highway Patrol resigned in disgrace because there were so many cases of misconduct among the NCHP. It is troubling when those who are entrusted with so much authority and power are seen as having little in the way of judgment, discretion, or common sense. And it undermines the credibility of all the good officers out there.
Yes I do think the state of law enforcement is in a huge grave yard spiral of a decline.
Just have a look for your self at some of the news stories.
http://twitter.com/InjusticeNews
http://whentennesseepigsfly.blogspot.com/
http://policecrimes.com
http://www.copblock.org/