As expected or shocked?

The verdict is in and the NYPD has dodged another bullet (no pun intended). The trial, which was overseen by a judge, provided the police officers with an avenue to pursue their defense. To have a jury decide this matter would have been based solely on emotions rather than the facts of the case. This is not to say that the judge was not swayed by his own; hopefully he was swayed by what was presented. Now where do we go from here? It was not a surprise that the police officers were exonerated. Policing is about making split second decisions, regardless of the outcome. Let's hope that the law enforcement community learns something from this, but then again, this is the New York Police Department.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vg_oKSjDKLU&feature=related

" Let the winds of change take you to new heights." Dr. BLR

In the case of Mumia Abu Jamal.

In the early 1980's, a journalist had a chance encounter with a Philadelphia police officer. The end result was the police officer, William Faulkner, was killed and the journalist, Mumia Abu Jamal, was arrested and charged with the murder. Mr. Jamal has been sitting on death row for almost three decades. The courts have recently granted Mr. Jamal a request to have the punishment phase of his case reheard. The courts will not look at his guilt rather whether he is to get the death penalty or life in prison. The facts surrounding this case are very controversial. Mr. Jamal is a cause celeb and has a following on several continents. It has been speculated that race was a determining factor in the imprisonment of Mr. Jamal. I was not there and can only go by what has been reported. I have made up my mind where I stand on this matter. Do your own investigation and let us know what you believe.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRGFZ1eLJO4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ri4hKUR_QgQ&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=va8cp-VQCRQ

" Hypocrisy perpetuates the lie and the truth will expose the hypocrisy." Dr. BLR

Realities of the job.

The job of a police officer is normally misunderstood. Some people believe that they have what is takes to be a police officer without knowing the true realities. It is easy to speculate that police officers write tickets and make life unpleasant for citizens. For those who are contemplating a career in law enforcement have you done your homework? Have you considered the inherent risks that come with the job? Take a look at the attached websites and make an assessment if this is the type of career you truly want. It quite possibly can save your life.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yz5--_qI_hU&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MEpUtoUzE4U


" Recognize the greatness in others even when they don't recognize it in themselves." Dr. BLR

Devisive or just the plain truth?

There has been much debate about the speech given by Reverend Jeremiah Wright, the pastor for Barack Obama. The catch words have been, "Taken out of context". Well, I heard the speech and found it to be rather enlightening, however, that is just my opinion. You have the opportunity to hear it for yourself. I implore you to express your views on this matter. The country is being torn apart by this thing we call race. Free speech is being diminished, however, not on this blog; speak out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hAYe7MT5BxM&feature=related


" Let your words echo in the halls of freedom; lest your voice will be condemned to silence."
Dr. BLR

Full honors or inexcusable death?

The recent revelation that a Norwalk, Connecticut, police officer was killed in the line of duty saddened the law enforcement community. However, the truth about the death of the police officer revealed that he committed suicide. The officer was apparently distraught about his recent divorce and that his ex-wife moved back to Australia with his daughter. The Mayor of the town stated that the police officer, who was a military veteran, would receive full police and military honors. The law enforcement profession and the military are two stressful occupations that increases the possibility that someone will get killed in the line of duty. If so, all the honors should be bestowed upon that person. However, can the same be afforded to someone who made a conscious decision to take their own life, due to a very stressful situation? Can committing suicide make you a honorable person?


" Mental vitality can lead to longevity, so think positively." Dr. BLR

Media, friend or foe?

Many of us are resigned to receive out daily news information from several sources of media. The normal news channels and our familiar radio programs normally tell us what is going on. Can it be that they really want to keep us informed? Or can it be that they are brainwashing us regarding what they want us to think. How often do you question the information that they are supplying? Are you a discerning consumer and seek alternative sources of information? If not, why not? The recent media frenzy in reference to former New York Governor, Elliott Spitzer's relations with an adult made for interesting news headlines, or did it? Should we care? Moreover, should we care what pastors and political aides say on behalf of presidential candidates? When will it stop and when will the media get back to reporting what is important? Did you know that people are dying in the sub-Saharan due to starvation? Is that news or does Brittney Spears trump everything?

" Making an effort to expand your level of comfort guarantees growth." Dr. BLR

Self defense or double standard?

Imagine for a moment that you are the father of a young male teenager. One evening your son runs into the house yelling that a mob is after him. You automatically grab your handgun and go see what the disturbance is about. You subsequently confront the mob of teenage males, who are yelling racial epithets and challenging your son to a fight. Inadvertently you shoot and kill the alleged leader of the group. Imagine that this shooting happened on your property. Would you expect to be cleared of the shooting? Are you justified in arming yourself? What should your punishment be for your actions?


" Make sure your expectations are chosen by you and not for you." Dr. BLR