body cams
Warning: The link contains a video of an unarmed man being shot.
Another unarmed black man, Bruce Warrick, has been shot by police. First, I give glory to God that the man is not dead and that the police immediately gave medical treatment. However, the body cams weave a story that police still have a ways to go.
PID (Positive Identification) is a key aspect before discharge of a weapon. Assuming threats leads to deadly consequences. Even according the NRA, “think first, shoot second.” Police are not above this, but rather should be have mastery over weapon control. Dealing with a presumed threat should not be “shoot first, figure it out later.” Although this time the man survived, often the victims do not (such as John Crawford in my hometown).
Body cams are revolutionary to police accountability – guarding both police and citizen with unbiased oversight. We would do well to continue to advocate for the use of this simple technology and continued changes in police training that equips them with de-escalation techniques and proper weapon control.
May the justice of the Lord be swift; may His hand be merciful.