Tag: stopping

The way it works in the US is that the police are tasked with raising local government revenue. Much of this is through traffic violation. The police stop black people often on spurious and flimsy grounds knowing that they will resist. The resisting then becomes the reason for the detention and arrest. Notice that the original reason for the stop is then quietly dropped and forgotten about – as it would not stand up in court. Even if it did – the petty nature of it would only result in a modest fine. Resisting arrest, fighting with officers, and threats – attract not only hefty fines – but quite often prison sentences and criminal records. Complying would seem the logical choice as it involves the least overall risk – but we do not live in an ideal world. For a White American – this can be a pleasant encounter between community equals – but for non-Whites it is often the beginning of a nightmare and even result in the death of the civilian. Qualified immunity often means the offending officers receive little or no punishment.