What a great piece. When an institution is no longer capable of criticizing itself and it's performance, it's dire straights indeed. It is probably no surprise to you that the "thin blue line" mentality is seen by many of us civilians as detrimental, not because of the solidarity it provokes, but because of the complete insulation from criticism it engenders.
My father in law was an officer here in the Midwest until he fell through a roof, shredding his hamstring and forcing early retirement. And he was a good cop. He is genuinely a decent person, and was a great example of a public servant. But he can sit there now, and watch/absorb accounts of obvious police wrong doing, and argue with you until he is blue in the face about how they took all proper steps, and that the danger they face necessitates whatever action is in question. I mean, it'll be totally obvious to everyone else in the room, but you will pretty much never ever catch him admitting any wrongdoing or negative behavior by police ever.
That steadfast refusal to be introspective, and critical of the institution is frightening to us civilians. So I recognize, and greatly appreciate your critical review of the institution.
I sincerely hope you stay on the job, and continue to work within the system to enact some of the reforms the system so badly needs. Thank you, for your service, and for your insight.
Thank you for this feedback, it is greatly appreciated. And glad you enjoyed the piece. I have to admit as well, that sometimes it is difficult for even the most educated and experienced of cops (including myself) to evaluate a situation from a perspective other than our own. Please feel free to leave more meaningful feedback down the road, I enjoyed reading your comment.