Police oversight needed

Police officers hold a unique position in society that subjects them to stress not encountered by most civilians. The behavior exhibited by former Spokane police Officer Dan Lesser is less than professional and reinforces the idea that police are on a power trip in their communities, targeting the vulnerable and the marginalized.

For an officer to continuously threaten death to a suspect is horrifying, especially as people grapple with ever-failing trust in law enforcement and the criminal justice system. In light of these recent events, it is important that we call attention to the behaviors of police, witnessed by the public, that shape public perceptions of our community’s officers.

As a young community member, I am in no position to explain how Lesser could have or should have handled this situation differently. However, I do wish to call all officers’ attention to the impressions left on their neighbors when law enforcement uses unjustifiable force and deeply offensive language during intense encounters.

If the stress of one’s job has pushed them to lose control: step back, re-evaluate, and do not allow a poor, regrettable decision to negatively impact one’s life and career, in addition to the safety of one’s community.

Brianna Barrick

Spokane