HomeMy WebLinkAbout9-24-14 Amundson-That vehicle, you know the oneFrom:Cole Amundson
To:Agenda
Subject:That vehicle, you know the one
Date:Tuesday, September 23, 2014 6:19:41 PM
To whomever it may concern,
It has recently come to my attention that our already bloated and redundant police force has come intopossession of (despite their claims to the contrary) an armored, militarized vehicle. Considering that welive in a peaceful community, one has to wonder why such a vehicle would be necessary. Regardless ofthe department's baseless justifications, there seems to be no discernible reason. Bozeman's violentcrime is too low for this.
I suppose you could drive around Main Street a little after 2 A.M. on the weekends and corral the DUIoffenders, saving our brave policemen the trouble of making multiple trips to the jail. Or maybe youcould put the fear of God into some college kids as you arrive to bust their house party, looking asthough the invasion of Iraq had just begun.
This vehicle should be done away with, and not just on the principle of it being a waste of resources.The only thing it will accomplish is instilling paranoia into our community. Not just in those who cry,"Police State!" but in our law enforcement as well.
"If the only tool you have is a hammer, every problem looks like a nail."
I feel that this quote illustrates perfectly why military grade equipment should be kept out of the handsof those who allegedly protect us. Allegedly being a key word, as the reputation of Police Departmentsacross the country have been called into question more than ever.
Sincerely,Cole Amundson