We have known for a long time how to avoid most police misconduct. The officer who murdered a citizen in Minneapolis had a long history of anger and violence issues known to department leadership, yet they kept him on the force.
If anyone thinks this is only a big city problem, it is not. Locally, The City of Crosby has an officer known for his volcanic temper and confrontations with citizens. On two separate occasions, while off duty, this officer was intoxicated and involved in confrontations while he had his [department issued] weapon on him. Being intoxicated while carrying a firearm in public in Minnesota is a crime, yet he was never charged in either incident. Don’t get me wrong, Crosby has some very fine officers, but the Department, which has been the subject of several lawsuits concerning the conduct of its former Chief and former Lieutenant, is asking for trouble keeping this person on. All of us, including the fine officers, who are the majority in law enforcement, will appreciate city leaders finally saying enough, holding the bad elements accountable, and getting rid of them.