But can authorities do this without compromising the investigation?
2. Authorities should put in place a system where the public can be alerted via radio (Emergency Broadcast System) within minutes that a shooting has occurred at X - be attentive.
Not a bad idea. But would it serve to foster a climate of justice, or a climate of fear? Judging how the media has been characterizing the population around the DC area, a EBS would seem to only foster fear and reclusion. Ultimately, the public would need the mindset that they are willing to put themselves at risk to catch the sniper- and ultimately save the lives of others. I want to have faith that Americans would do this. But I think fear has a pretty tight grip on many citizens in the DC area.
3. Unfortunately, they must mostly rely on a person disrupting the next attempted sniping, or on an acquaintance turning the sniper in.
I agree. Someone in the public knows something. Ultimately, I do think the actions of a private citizen, whether it will be through tips or capture, will get the sniper.
Let's face it, these roadblocks are really meant to give the appearance the police are "on the case". The chances of one resulting in an arrest are nil; the sniper's already prepared for this eventuality.
Well, I do believe that the police have become so steadfast in their 'original' ideas of escape routes, etc., that they have completely shut down all other possibilities or escape routes. The police are looking for obvious answers to a complex crime.
Thank you, NittnayLion, for your considerate reply.
1. Authorities need to release more details to the public, including descriptions, info on the tarot card, etc.But can authorities do this without compromising the investigation?
I think they can. Authorities weighed these very same questions in the Unabomber case, and their method yielded success. If the success of your investigation will rely on public tips, you must give the public enough information for them to reply intelligently.
2. Authorities should put in place a system where the public can be alerted via radio (Emergency Broadcast System) within minutes that a shooting has occurred at X - be attentive.Yes, the public must be willing to put themselves at risk. But that's always been the intent - the citizens are responsible for protecting themselves, notwithstanding Sarah Brady's press releases. If they aren't up to that task then this sniper is the least of our problems. BTW, my thought is more that people would follow at a safe distance or call the police when a strange vehicle/person passes their location. If no catch is made, at least the police could use these details to deduce a path of exit.Not a bad idea. But would it serve to foster a climate of justice, or a climate of fear? Judging how the media has been characterizing the population around the DC area, a EBS would seem to only foster fear and reclusion. Ultimately, the public would need the mindset that they are willing to put themselves at risk to catch the sniper- and ultimately save the lives of others. I want to have faith that Americans would do this. But I think fear has a pretty tight grip on many citizens in the DC area.
Thank you, NittanyLion, for your considerate reply.
And you for yours. It's always a pleasure.