Quote:
Originally Posted by Chief X
Typically I won't comment on forums where police matters are brought up --because many people need a scapegoat, rather than take responsibility for their own actions. But this time, having just left Dunkin Donuts, and now sitting in front of my computer, I feel the need to respond.
It has always been interesting to me to hear about law enforcement agencies that are doing one particular function of their job, in this case --traffic enforcement. For the past 30 years, I've heard it all; "why aren't you out there arresting real criminals? What is your quota for speeders? I saw an officer speeding past me and he wasn't responding to a call," etc.
A few have said it on here - "if you don't want a ticket, don't speed". That sounds pretty reasonable to me.
I also like where the Talk Host was asked if he ever had to "flash his tin" to get out of a ticket. He apparently never had to do that, which makes two of us. Maybe we are just more aware of, or pay better attention to the speed limits, having been in an enforcement capacity. Too many people today are preoccupied with that almighty cell phone while they drive, along with those who find it necessary to eat, put on makeup, or a host of other distractors while driving. News Flash -- Driving is a full time job!
Having only lived in the Villages for 7 months, I may be a newcomer, but I have very good observation qualities. Not only do I ride a motorcycle around the Villages, I also run and ride my bicycle 6 days each week, so I do observe a lot of things here including traffic.
My first 4 months here I witnessed two accidents involving my sons car and a friends car that were hit while parked, and I was also hit on my bicycle by a car. One of the drivers told me she was legally blind. Go figure! I've had many close calls while running too. I guess if I stated that the majority of drivers in the Villages are horrible drivers, that would be no different than inferring that cops sit at Dunkin Donuts when the weather is bad.
From what I've seen while living here, I fully understand why the local police have active traffic enforcement patrols. I for one have no problem --even on the Harley-- keeping within the posted limits.
It's kind of like the weather, or perhaps the restaurants around here --some people are just never happy.
Chief X
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Chief,
Having lived much of my life in New England - cops and Dunkin Donuts jokes are just a part of life. However, when I had need of the police in my town, they were always professional and highly effective at their jobs.
I agree that if you don't want to pay the dime (or do the time), then for goodness sakes don't break the law. And I do agree that speeders are "real" lawbreakers.
However, here is where I take exception and I think that I am not alone. When a speed limit drops by 20 mph or more - with or without warning - in a short expanse of road, and an officer is just waiting, well.... that is revenue raising. Play fair. If the speed limit is going to drop - give adequate warning to allow drivers time to comply. I think it is situations like these that give rise to the "quota" comments.
JMO