One of the most alarming side effects of the federal government’s war on drugs is
the militarization of law enforcement in America. There are two aspects to the
militarization phenomenon. First, the American tradition of civil-military separation
is breaking down as Congress assigns more and more law enforcement responsibilities
to the armed forces. Second, state and local police officers are increasingly emulating
the war-fighting tactics of soldiers. Most Americans are unaware of the militarization
phenomenon simply because it has been creeping along imperceptibly for many years.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The problem is that the mindset of the soldier is simply not appropriate for the civilian
police officer. Police officers confront not an “enemy” but individuals who are protected
by the Bill of Rights. Confusing the police function with the military function can lead to
dangerous and unintended consequences—such as unnecessary shootings and killings.
Time to pull in the reins.