Andrew Garbarino Questions Security Expert on Rising Attacks Against Law Enforcement

Persistent Growing Issue of Law Enforcement Attacks

• 🎯 Attacks on law enforcement are a persistent and growing issue, with 2,553 officers shot in the last seven years, spanning two administrations.
• ⚠️ The trend is attributed to the dehumanization of law enforcement officers through unchecked comments, which can lead people to act on their beliefs.
• 🗣️ Political rhetoric and attacks amongst political opponents are creating actual targets on the backs of law enforcement officers and their families.

Historical Patterns and Data Collection

• 📊 The Fraternal Order of Police began collecting data because they recognized a trend that was not being adequately tracked nationally.
• 📈 While specific data on violence towards officers was lacking, the organization started tracking it to reveal patterns.
• 📉 The numbers of officers shot have been higher in recent years, indicating a worsening crisis.

Addressing the Crisis and Prioritizing Safety

• 🤝 Turning down the rhetoric is the first priority, with a recognition that this is a shared responsibility across both sides of the political spectrum.
• ⚖️ The Protect and Serve Act is proposed as a measure to give the Department of Justice the ability to intervene in certain circumstances to protect law enforcement officers and communities.
• 📢 Words have consequences, and the dehumanization of law enforcement must stop, as people act on the beliefs fostered by such rhetoric.

Impact on Recruitment and Retention

• 📉 The rising anti-police sentiment is having a significant impact on officer and agent safety, as well as on recruitment and retention within law enforcement agencies.
• 💼 This sentiment affects how law enforcement officers perform their duties and the overall effectiveness of agencies.
• 🤝 A call for working together is emphasized to decrease rhetoric and find ways to enhance officer protection through legislation and collaborative efforts.