Monday night, near my hometown in Hancock County, a Hancock County Sheriff’s Deputy was beaten and cut during an apparent routine traffic stop.
Just last week, funerals were held for the two murdered police officers in Hattiesburg.
Before now, I had been reading about violent acts committed to law enforcement officers in other parts of the country, now it’s happening practically in my own backyard.
I’m sickened by the fact that anyone would bring harm to police officers.
They risk their lives everyday to protect people they don’t even know, displaying a strong commitment to protect the communities they serve.
Granted, there have been instances where law enforcement officers have been accused of improper practices, but as with every profession, there will be a couple of bad apples.
I was brought up to respect police officers and I still do.
I’ve been pulled over a couple of times, once for speeding and the other time was when I forgot to turn my headlights on, but I complied with everything the officer told me to do.
And yes, I feel it’s that simple, compliance. Now, a person with something to hide may feel differently about that, but I feel situations would end more positively if respect for authority were practiced.
I’m thankful for our men and women in blue. I know that were I in an emergency situation, I would feel safe knowing they would help me.
For example, a couple of weeks ago I had a flat tire and a Pearl River County Sheriff’s Department deputy changed it for me and made sure it was safe for me to drive.
I would like to thank all the law enforcement officers of Pearl River County for their tireless efforts to ensure we have a safe place to live.
Lastly, let’s not forget the families of these public servants, who don’t know if they will see their loved one return home after a shift.