Where is the R-E-S-P-E-C-T?

During my career in public safety, I have seen a rapid decline in respect for law enforcement. Law enforcement officers combat crime but experience significant personal and professional hardships in the process. Some officers even pay the ultimate sacrifice because of the utter lack of respect for the service and protection they selflessly provide. These are just a few recent displays of utter lack of respect for local law enforcement.

- Orange County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) Deputy Brandon Coates was shot and killed by a convicted felon and thief whose last theft actually stole the life of a treasured husband, son, brother, Marine and deputy. The coward then took his own life as if life itself was meaningless. Maybe his own life meant nothing to him but Brandon’s life meant the world to his immediate family and extended family of law enforcement officers.

- OCSO Deputy Steven Cook was viciously and repeatedly stabbed in the face and neck that ultimately left Deputy Cook seriously injured and a young disturbed man dead. All of this tragedy and hardship over a property crime? The value on life far outweighs any property’s value!

- Moving vehicles used as weapons against law enforcement has become more prevalent and is leading to more use of force encounters. The life-threatening danger of a 5,000 pound bullet intentionally driving at you requires anyone (especially officers) to make split second decisions that will surely be scrutinized via extensive investigative resources and time. As of this writing, the Florida Highway Patrol is the latest agency to experience this deadly situation in Orlando.

- UCF Professor Jennifer Vest’s media spectacle of her complaints of alleged racism and violation of her rights by UCF Police Officers during a traffic stop. An outsourced investigation cleared these officers but Professor Vest continues to prolong her weaning 15 minutes of fame based on her fraudulent diatribe against law enforcement. To date, Professor Vest is not being held accountable for her actions by UCF President Hitt or her peers.

There are many wonderful citizens out there who truly respect law enforcement whether they are receiving our help, being held liable for their actions or both. I realize that officers must do their part to enhance and protect our relationships with the public. First impressions are lasting impressions so we will do our best. However, please remember that our bad day on the job is often quite different from yours. We frequently experience things that only nightmares are made of. We are human and have feelings so please remember that as we do our jobs. Likewise, we will remember that we are entrusted with great power that requires great responsibility for our actions.

John Park
President
Central Florida Police Benevolent Association