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Look, we need better training for cops. That's the final answer. If somebody is just trying to get away, they shouldn't have to pay with their lives unless they are putting people in DIRECT danger. The fact that he was putting people in danger 30 seconds ago doesn't mean dick. There is no immediate need to fire your weapon. I understand having it drawn. I understand you gotta protect yourself from a criminal who is putting his own and others' lives at risk with his reckless behavior. But there was zero NEED (I want you guys to look at that word again... NEED) to fire his weapon. Weapons should only be fired when they NEED to be. And if you think this weapon NEEDED to be fired, then you are not seeing beyond your principle to stand up for cops no matter the circumstances.
I don't think this cop is a bad guy, or needs to lose his job or anything. He was put in a tough spot, saw a problem that looked to him like a nail, and decided to use his hammer. But cops need to able to recognize problems that AREN'T nails. Or, perhaps in this case, was a former nail that had turned into something way less serious by the time the gun was drawn.
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