[Wonder Warthog]

"How do the police know the drivers are innocent? How do they know that the driver isn't the sniper? What would you have them do? You know, I would cooperate with the police totally. If that is a problem for you, so be it."

Obviously you have forgotten that the watchword in American law enforcement is supposed to be "innocent until proven guilty". Unless and until some probable cause exists, there is absolutely no justification for this cr*p (and no--merely driving a white van is NOT sufficient probable cause).

This kind of police tactic is unconscionable, but is becoming "typical police procedure". DAMN these jack-booted thugs.

[ClearCase_guy]

Obviously you have forgotten that the watchword in American law enforcement is supposed to be "innocent until proven guilty". Unless and until some probable cause exists, there is absolutely no justification for this cr*p (and no--merely driving a white van is NOT sufficient probable cause).

You are confused about Innocent until proven guilty. The police routinely lock up criminals until their trial is over -- we don't know if they are innocent or guilty yet, but we lock them up. And it's OK.

From your post, it would seem that you want the police to stop possible criminals only after the possible criminals has already stood for trial.

[Howlin]

"innocent until proven guilty"

That only applies in a court of law. And they sure have probable cause. White vans.

And I'm not buying the fact those people were on the ground solely because they were driving white vans. Ther had to be some other reason, because, if it were so, there would be people laying on the ground from here to New York City just based on the NUMBER of white vans I see on TV.

[G.Mason]

"Obviously you have forgotten that the watchword in American law enforcement is supposed to be "innocent until proven guilty". Unless and until some probable cause exists, there is absolutely no justification for this cr*p (and no--merely driving a white van is NOT sufficient probable cause)."

Excuse me for butting in.....

Obviously you are not in law enforcement.

Unless one is a Salmon, it is advisable to go with the flow.

Many things in life have "no justification" (fair) and litigating is rather expensive. (unfair?)

[ladyinred]

The fact that white vans, trucks, etc. are seen at the scenes of the shootings is the reason for them stopping them, as I am sure you are aware.