Originally Posted By: bigmike
I know it wasn't directed to me, but I have been in a situation where someone threatened me with a broken beer bottle. To me, that's not far off from a small pocketknife.
Similar situation as those police officers: it was out on a public street near my home, the man had just committed a crime (sexual in nature on a minor), he had a weapon and was not thinking clearly (probably inebriated), and he was threatening me verbally and physically.
I drew my weapon and remained as calm as I could, spoke clearly and forcefully, and thought I was keeping my patience level because killing a man is a serious thing. This goes on for around 5-10 minutes. Eventually, this guy's brother walked up to the scene and drug him off, begging me not to shoot him, which of course I didn't. He was later arrested without incident.
Should police let the guy walk away? No, I don't think that's an option in their case. But some self control, even if it were asking more than 20 minutes worth, should be exercised. On an 10 hour shift, what's another 20 minutes to talk someone down from a lethal incident. My opinion is to call the fire department and hose the guy until he gives up. He was already cornered.
Were they legal in shooting him, probably. But what is legal and what is moral?
Agree.
Interestingly, this came up on the BBC today:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-19641398
Now, I understand that it would be ludicrous for U.S. police to give up their arms, but it does suggest other parts of the world may have other ways of dealing with incidents like this.
Incidentally, my Father was a Police officer in the U.K. for 23 years. he was authorized to be armed if required. he never felt the need to use his weapon (although he was several times issued a weapon) during his whole career.
