Democracy In Albany

If I am to be shot in error by a gaggle of ill trained cops, I would at least like it to be ones who have not only graduated from high school but have a minimum 4 year degree.  At least an Associates and finish the other two years on the job, and let the employer (taxpayer) pick up the tab.  Additionally, there are States like Vermont that border NY where it is not uncommon to find people with registered weapons on a gun rack in the back of their car or on the seat or dashboard behind the counter where they work.    It just might make the general public, cops and criminals be more respectful of each other.  Fear is the most powerful motivator.

Times have changed and the police are under attack.  Some departments are making changes that have and will continue to help officers do their job.  In some countries like England, video cameras are everywhere and it has found to be helpful.  In Albany the traffic lights do not even work properly.  Video cameras in patrol cars have been found to be helpful both to police and those accused of a crime.    Cops work for the citizens not for the politicians.  They apparently have forgotten this.  A Police Review Board trumps the governing body in any city or town.  If the police are afraid of having one, there is something very wrong with the department.  Additionally, if you work for the City of Albany, live here, pay a commuter tax, or get out.  This goes for the Mayor also who lives in the Albany portion of Slingerlands.  It does not hurt the City to have local cops living in it.  There is a very strong statement made when City employees do not want to live in the town or city they work in