View from the cop

By Sarge

July 6, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this

Hoorah… spoken like a true cop!!! A simple piece of common sense would save a lot of people of trouble if they only used it.

By Michael

July 6, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

I don’t know, call me an American, I just have problems being ordered around and being immediately compliant because some person has a badge on. If I always just complied with whatever I was told I would likely be a government employee right now.

All those people that watch or hear about it and say, oh, they should have just complied, I’d bet money they would have done the same thing if they felt they had some sort of right to do whatever it was they were doing. From grandmas to soccer moms, they would have done the same thing.

By Investigate IAD

July 6, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this

It is appalling that any idiot who doesn’t like being arrested for breaking the law can initiate a complaint that will disrupt the life of an underpaid, underappreciated police officer for months and months. The real issue is: what was Internal Affairs doing for almost a year to resolve this spurious complaint against this top notch officer? That entire unit needs to be revamped, especially in view of recent reports of the higher ups submitting false justifications for the use of take home vehicles. (In case anyone’s paying attention, that’s stealing and lying).

By delta dawn

July 6, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

It seems that the more education and titles you have attached to your name, the more stupid you act.

By gateacher

July 6, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

I agree. It sounds like this guy is an egocentric jerk. You would think, with his PhD, he might reason that he is making himself out to look like more and more of an idiot. He doesn’t have the basis for any complaint.

By Investigate IAD

July 6, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this

Steve (and others), if you have not already, read the Creative Loafing Article about Chief Pennington and the APD. It is enlightening, to say the least!!!

By Capt

July 6, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this

I am impressed that his excuse is that jaywalking in Britain is not illegal. Guess what moron….you were not in Britan or did you forget. Your haughty attitude and “I am so much above you lowlifes” approach is growing real thin. Let me suggest this…Come on back and sue the officer. I hope I am on the jury…oh I guess that they don’t have that kind of jury in Britain so….just for you we must change our entire judicial system so you can be comfortable with your high falootin self. (Look up falootin….). If you cannot obey our laws here or follow directions of our officers that are CLEARLY IN UNIFORM AND EASY TO IDENTIFY then stay in Britain. Better yet come on back and go jaywalking across I85 northbound around 1 am in the vacinity of Shallowford Road and let some of your Spanish speaking brothers run over your a* as you try to dodge the drunks…..give it a try. Love your american friends.

By Michael

July 6, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

Yeah, the more educated you get the more likely stupid people will think you are stupid for not being a compliant sheep. I’m sure that 92 yr old woman in Atlanta would be alive today if she had just been compliant with the lying cops who busted down her door. Gd Dan jack-booted, militaristic, thugs.

By Elizabeth

July 6, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

I have been harrassed by the police on two separate occasions downtown. I am female, 5’5” tall, 110 lbs. One cop called me all hours of the day and night at my house, threatening to arrest me. On another occasion, I was ticketed for failing to obey an officer, even though I’d only asked for directions! When I complained to the APD, I was told it was my word against these officers and that citizens are always WRONG.

Now I just avoid the downtown area altogether. In my experience, downtown police officers have hair-trigger tempers and are just looking for opportunities to harass the citizenry. I’ll gladly keep my dollars in the suburbs!

By Investigate IAD

July 6, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

Now IAD is run by Major C.J. Davis. She’s very “hard working,” as she was able to work for 72 hours straight collecting city pay and extra job pay during the NBA All Star Game WITHOUT SLEEP! Pretty unbelievable, right?

By comp133xi7y

July 6, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

What’s funny is that “Capt”, assuming he’s ever even traveled outside the borders of Georgia, would never bother to learn the laws of a country he was visiting. After all, everyone should be American, right? Everyone should do things our way?

Cops are not military police. Half of you are decent, hard-working and underappreciated, but the other half of you became cops because you are would-be gestapo who get off on wearing a gun and telling other people what to do.

I don’t care what the investigation said - anyone with a brain knows that throwing an old man to the pavement and cuffing him for JAYWALKING is ridiculous. What’s even worse is that the abusive behavior of the nazi in question is overlooked because the man was A) Foreign and B) Better educated than most people, which of COURSE means he is arrogant, egocentric, evil and…maybe even a LIBERAL.

By Investigate IAD

July 6, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

Comp, let me get this straight. A guy breaks the law, is belligerent, refuses to show ID and resists arrest. When the police officer attempts to deal with the situation (using escalating force, as he is trained to do), you call him a Nazi. I am sure that you’d be the first person bit*ching and complaining that APD didn’t do its job if the guy had jaywalked in front of your car when you had the right of way and you hit him. The cop is not a Nazi, but you are definitely an idiot.

By delta dawn

July 6, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

There are bad seeds in any occupation, that is a given. But you people complaining sound like you fit in the group for the comprehension disabled. You don’t like any kind of authority. These people put their life on the line everyday, protecting you. People like you only notice the bad things that are done and never see what they do that is good, and a lot of times they don’t have to do these good things. If you obey the law, you wouldn’t have a problem.

By Jay

July 6, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

Leonpacher did what he did not for safety reasons, but because he couldn’t accept the fact that someone was questioning him—validly, I might add. Cops need to grow up and stop using excessive force to compensate for their insecurities.

There is a silver lining to this story: The professor wasn’t shot to death.

By Investigate IAD

July 6, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

Amen, Delta Dawn.

By Lee

July 6, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this

Here is my problem with this whole scenario:

The officer in question was off duty and was hired by one of the hotels to provide security and help direct traffic. Now, if this hotel had hired a rent-a-cop from Lt Steve’s Security, BBQ, and Bait Shop Inc., that rent-a-cop would not have had the authority to arrest or ticket this man. All he could have done would be to nicely ask the man to cross at the light for his own safety.

The reason these businesses hire off duty cops is that it limits their liability to lawsuits. Hey, guess who is paying for this IAD investigation? That’s right, the taxpayer.

So, the taxpayer has to pay for an investigation because of the actions of an off duty cop who was moonlighting.

Now, I’m even more mad. Maybe we should make the hotel pay for this investigation.

Better yet, make it a policy that says if you’re a cop and want to moonlight, take off your taxpayer supplied uniform, badge, and gun and put on the one that says “Bob’s Security.”

Oh yeah, speaking of off duty cops, it really p** me off when an off duty cops walks out into the middle of the road, stops traffic for two blocks just to let a couple of cars out of a BUSINESS’ parking deck.

By Steve

July 6, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this

Steve, I usually enjoy your stories, but this one made me embarrassed for my fellow Steve. Leonpacher is a white trash a s s hole who was obviously looking for an excuse to flaunt his authority. There are many more questionable things going on downtown than jaywalking. We are overrun with pickpockets, robbers, hookers, panhandlers, gangsta garbage, and other criminals and deviants, but apparently those people are harder to deal with than a guy in a suit who is simply doing what nearly all of us do at least several times a month. Thanks for defending the indefensible and helping facilitate the idea that downtown Atlanta is nowhere that decent people - including convention attendees and tourists who bring sh1t-tons of revenue to this city - should bother going. Nice work.

By huckleberry

July 6, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

Whats with cops & their military haircuts, gear & clothes. The rest of us either grew out of playing GI Joe or went into the military for real. What a bunch of thugs. How come they have time to kill old ladies & beat up jaywalkers, but they won’t lift a finger on identity theft cases. No physical rush from taking somebody out,I guess.

By delta dawn

July 6, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

@Jay - When you are being mugged, robbed at gunpoint, and the police come, I hope you remember what you said about excessive force, and they don’t use it. Get over yourself.

By comp133xi7y

July 6, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

Obviously the concepts of degree and discernment are beyond you, Delta. Not liking bully cops doesn’t mean that one doesn’t like authority, it means that one is intelligent enough to recognize that blind obedience is un-American.

Similarly, being robbed at gunpoint and jaywalking are two entirely different things. Hurling an old man to the ground and handcuffing him for having the temerity not to as “How high” when Mr. Gestapo shouted “JUMP!” arguably created more of a hazard to life and safety than the act of jaywalking itself.

And yes, obsessed-with-IAD, I do call him a nazi. Any cop with a BRAIN, which you obviously aren’t, should know that you don’t BEAT UP an old man for a freaking misdemeanor. You, like many cops, simply can’t handle the fact that people don’t blindly obey you.

By Cassie

July 6, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

I can’t believe that we are still giving this story press time.

Fact is, you cannot protect people from their own stupidity. Let the idiots get run over. It reduces stupidity in the gene pool

By delta dawn

July 6, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

Tell that blind obedience to any veteran who served their country proudly and selflessly. I am very AMERICAN. You may not like the people in authority, but you don’t diss them. That runs from the PRESIDENT on down. ITS CALLED TREASON WHEN YOU DO.

By Steve

July 6, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

Copied from Wikipedia:

“To avoid the abuses of the English law (including executions by Henry VIII of those who criticized his repeated marriages), treason was specifically defined in the United States Constitution, the only crime so defined. Article III Section 3 delineates treason as follows:

Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort. No Person shall be convicted of Treason unless on the Testimony of two Witnesses to the same overt Act, or on Confession in open Court.”

So much for your lovely definition of treason, “Delta Dawn”, you f!@king retard.

By Steve

July 6, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

THANK YOU!! Finally someone telling it like it should be told. The professor is an arrogant idiot. Thank you Officer Leonpacher for doing your job. You have my respect.

By Steve

July 6, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

THANK YOU!! Finally someone telling it like it should be told. The professor is an arrogant idiot. Thank you Officer Leonpacher for doing your job. You have my respect.

By Investigate IAD

July 6, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

Comp, I am not a cop, nor do I play one on tv. I am a mere law abiding citizen who works downtown and who regularly sees the parade of out of towners who do not know how to cross the street.

By Doctor LongGhost

July 6, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

Hey Delta Dawn. It’s NOT called “treason” when you diss the President or anyone in authority. It’s called freedom of speech, a snappy little concept that you may have heard of, you being an Amerikkkan and all.

By Brian

July 6, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

Ok, let’s solve the problem this way.

New Law: If you don’t cross the street at a corner, or you don’t cross at a crosswalk, all drivers are released from all liability if they hit you. Also, you are solely responsible for the cost of treating your injuries and any damage to the car. This includes the seizure of your property.

Now since it wasn’t an American citizen, we couldn’t have seized his property; but, it would help renew the sense of individual responsiblity around here.

By Jay

July 6, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

“@Jay - When you are being mugged, robbed at gunpoint, and the police come, I hope you remember what you said about excessive force, and they don’t use it. Get over yourself.”

I must have missed the part of the story about the professor mugging someone. And if I ever am robbed at gunpoint, I’ll probably have to fend for myself because the cops will be too busy slamming a 57-year-old jaywalker to the pavement across town.

By Jesse's Girl

July 6, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

Elizabeth….I fail to see what your height and weight have to do with anything.

By delta dawn

July 6, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

Well, may not be legal definition, but if you don’t like it here the way things are, please leave and take your stupid anti everything cohorts with you.

By Jason

July 6, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

A week before this incident happened, I encountered a similar situation at the same location. I wanted to go from the Marriott to the Hilton. Going down the stairs from the Marriott to the street, there were at least half a dozen signs stating that one should not cross the street midblock. When I got to the bottom of the stairs, I was feeling lazy and decided to jaywalk anyway. An officer out in front of the Hilton yelled at me to not cross the street and that I must use the crosswalk at the intersection.

This is where my experience and that of the professor diverge. I knew what I was doing was wrong and when the officer called me out on it, I went to the crosswalk and crossed there. I didn’t let my ego take over and assume that I’m better than everyone else and should be allowed to jaywalk because I wanted to be lazy. If the officer had given me a ticket, I would have been upset. At first probably at the officer but eventually at myself instead of breaking the law and ignoring all the signs.

The old saying “Don’t do the crime if you can’t do the time” applies to jaywalking too. The professor thought he didn’t have to follow the rules even after he walked past half a dozen signs and was instructed by the officer to do so.

The real solution to this is to add a solid wall of planters with trees in them at the edge of the sidewalk at the bottom of the stairs between the two hotels. This will prevent pedestrians from attempting to cross midblock and will improve the look of the area. Given that it is the Marriott’s poor architecture that creates this problem, I would hope that they would step up to the plate and pay to have the planters installed instead of relying on half a dozen signs that, while very clear in their message, don’t prevent the temptation to take a short cut across a very busy street filled with high speed traffic.

By Doctor LongGhost

July 6, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

No Delta Dawn. This country was founded on freedom of speech, freedom to disagree and freedom to stand up for yourself. Why don’t you take YOUR unAmerican attitude and go join the Taliban. This country was founded to be the greatest country the world has ever seen, and I’m never going to turn tail and run just because people like you are trying to turn it into a totalitarian state. Read the Bill of Rights and find out what we stand for here in the United States before you open you ignorant yap and presume to speak for any good American.

By Robert

July 6, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

The arrogant professor should use the PHD he has, let us see what happens when a 5000 pound SUV meets a 175 pound arrogant englishman in the middle of the street. For all of the downtown police bashers take a look at what they put up with every day. The downtown area is host to some convention, or event every day. Quit using the

By Katharine

July 6, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

Mr. Rose, Your attitude stinks. First, policemen are public servants. Second, your reference to “convention goobers” reveals contempt for the guests Atlanta is so hot to attract. Third, if everyone is jaywalking, why did that officer single out that one man to confront? Not only does it show inequitable enforcement of the law, but if everyone is jaywalking, cars can’t move fast enough to hurt anyone. Remember, pedestrians still have the right of way, because a car can hurt a pedestrian much worse than the pedestrian can hurt a car. Fourth, no one can convince me the policeman wasn’t on a power trip and more interested in generating revenues from fines than protecting the public.

By Robert

July 6, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

The arrogant professor should use the PHD he has, let us see what happens when a 5000 pound SUV meets a 175 pound arrogant englishman in the middle of the street. For all of the downtown police bashers take a look at what they put up with every day. The downtown area is host to some convention, or event every day. Quit using the

By Robert

July 6, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

The arrogant professor should use the PHD he has, let us see what happens when a 5000 pound SUV meets a 175 pound arrogant englishman in the middle of the street. For all of the downtown police bashers take a look at what they put up with every day. The downtown area is host to some convention, or event every day. Quit using the Neal St. shooting crutch. No group is more upset about that than the police department you are so quick to bash. For those who continue to judge, pull up your bootstraps and go to the citizens police acad. that they offer. Learn something so you can comment intelligently about the subject.

By delta dawn

July 6, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

Listen you self righteous doctor of ? I am a good american and I don’t disagree with freedom of speech. But when you cross over in to verbally assaulting those in authority, I draw the line.

By Doctor LongGhost

July 6, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

Delta Dawn, Like I care if you draw the line? All you fascists like to claim you’re good Americans, but your whole approach to the world is rooted in blind obedience and bowing to authority, just like the Nazis. Samuel Johnson said “Patriotism is the last refuge for scoundrels.” You’re a good American like Hitler was a good German.

By delta dawn

July 6, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

And you, sir, are a blue blooded American A*

By Doctor LongGhost

July 6, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

Well, he’s got me there, folks!

By Rod

July 6, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

Katharine - can you really be that stupid?

First, you point out that Police Officers are Public Servants. What’s the point of that? You mean, when I rob a bank, if a cop gets there then he has to serve me and hold some extra bags of cash for me? Huh? No, his job is to protect the public - in this case by stopping an a-hole from walking in the middle of the street, possibly causing an accident by people having to slam on their brakes.

Secondly - you said: “everyone is jaywalking, cars can’t move fast enough to hurt anyone” Ah, so according to you, if everyone does it then it’s okay and nobody should be stopped. So, if a gang is raping your daughter - I should be able to join in and no one should try and stop us? That’s exactly what you’re saying.

You’re a total idiot - a posterchild for Abortion rights.

By David

July 6, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

There’s no doubt that this user is wrong for failing to obey the long arms of the law. However, we should not overlook the reputations that these officers have created. A reputation that involved killing innocent people, bribing women for sex, respect me or i’ll throw you in jail mentality. These officers are brutal and do not fulfill the oath “to server and protect”. They do the opposite, which is HARASS, INTIMIDATE, AND KILL. The officer system needs a system of checks and balances and as for this gentleman, I can relate to him. I hate police officers and I certainly don’t respect them. I fear them.

By dcma

July 6, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

“convention goobers”?! How old are you? It’s the “convention goobers” that keep downtown floating because politicians are so crooked and have no clue about how to run a city.

Cops are out-of-control as is evident with the whole killing of a 92 year-old woman scandal. They think they can write the laws as well as enforce them. Putting on a badge doesn’t give you the right to bully citizens. They should just do their jobs and not try to act like someone intentionally broke the law to insult their ego.

By delta dawn

July 6, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

I wish all you freedom of speech groupies had to ride a few days with a policeman or fireman. Maybe you would not be so negative then.

By Doctor LongGhost

July 6, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

Delta Dawn, You seem to argue that because cops have a hard job, we should abandon free speech? That’s pretty convoluted logic! And don’t bring firemen into it! Last time I checked, no firemen ever shot a 90-year-old woman to death after jackbooting his way into her home. Now folks, don’t get me wrong, good cops are the salt of the earth (to use a time-honored and well-loved cliche), which is why we should be ever vigilant against those thugs in uniform who would sully their reputations.

By MOT

July 6, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

Are there those who abuse their power in the Police systems? YES!

Are there anti-authority citizens who would just as soon be hit by a moving vehicle as told to move out of the way to safety? YES!

The VERY bottom line is this:

1)The law was broken 2)The Officer ignored by the law breaker

What happens to the law when the offender is not held accountable? It dilutes the law into meaningless words. None of the problems in the system (abusers of power or poorly managed system) NEVER justifies ignoring the law!!!

Had the officer let the incident go when the offending professor ignored him, what would have prevented the throngs from following suit?

The laws are in place, put in place by US, the American people because we desire a CIVILIZED society where we find protection in different forms from different dangers. Even the dangers of corrupt police: If we don’t like the law, there is a process citizens can utilize to change it. If we don’t like those who enforce the laws, we can also use processes in place to change it. If we don’t like the way the law is enforced, once again, there are processes in place, thanks to this being the United States of America, to change it. The trouble is, it takes time, effort, a little thinking and LOTS of people backing it, wherein comes the time and effort to gather like-minded folks.

Those of you who are whining and complaining about the egocentric Nazi’s referring to the police, are simply egocentric loud-mouthed whiners too lazy to get off your butts to learn how to use the system and processes to make the changes you are whining about. So, unless you get up off your butts and become actively engaged, be quiet! (By the way, this is the same trouble that politics offers: no one likes the candidates or the way it goes but not enough will ban together to work hard to change it)

As for the Brit Professor: the English are known for their impeccable manners, where were yours during your stay as OUR guest???? Shame on YOU!!!

It is true though, that those who are super intelligent totally lack common sense. Maybe we should pity him instead for being common sense disabled!

By HAROLD

July 6, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this

IF CARS WERE PROHIBITED FROM PEACHTREE THIS WOULD NOT BE AN ONGOING INTERNATIONAL EMBARRASSMENT FOR ATLANTA

NO CARS ON PEACHTREE BY JULY 4 2012

ATLANTA CAN FINALLY MAKE ITSELF A DESIRABLE PLACE TO LIVE INSTEAD OF A TACKY TOURIST ATTRACTION

NO CARS ON PEACHTREE BY JULY 4 2012

By comp133xi7y

July 6, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

Delta, you are a sad excuse for an American. Criticizing those in authority is EXACTLY what the First Ammendment is meant to protect. Jefferson said “Dissent is the highest form of Patriotism”, but then I doubt you are interested in what the Founding Fathers actually intended.

A good citizenry should constantly call its leaders to task for those actions they undertake which they deem improper. Otherwise, freedom of speech is meaningless.

Thankfully, there are more than enough TRUE patriots out there who understand what being American ACTUALLY means to balance out the unthinking bufoons like you who prattle on and on about their patriotism without having the slightest inkling what it really means.

By HAROLD

July 6, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

THERE ARE ALREADY HARDLY ANY DRIVEWAYS ONTO PEACHTREE. THE PARKING DECKS ARE ALL ON SIDE STREETS.

SHUT PEACHTREE DOWN! MAKE PEACHTREE LINEAR PARK INSTEAD!

NO CARS ON PEACHTREE BY JULY 4 2012!

By Elizabeth

July 6, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

Jesse’s Girl:

I was pointing out that I am not physically threatening to anyone, much less a police officer. Sorry you couldn’t figure that out.

By JC

July 6, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

You’re right Delta Dawn…all these guys have to do is to ride with a cop one day to find out what kind of society they live in….and believe me…it isn’t Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood.

By Emma

July 6, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

No one should be body slammed and hauled off to jail for jay-walking. PERIOD. I don’t care if it’s LEGAL to body slam citizen for minor offenses; that doesn’t make it OK.

There are good cops and there are bad cops. The bad ones can abuse their power, abuse you, arrest you, harass you, throw you in jail and even kill you for inconsequential or trumped up offenses. Those of you defending aggressive cops, I pray you have the misfortune to encounter one.

By delta dawn

July 6, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Elizabeth - I thought you were advertising for dates.

By JC

July 6, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

Emma…very simple…obey the law ! and you’ll be just fine girl! Make sure you don’t speed…you pay your taxes…you don’t jaywalk…and you don’t cheat on your husband…life will be a lot easier…trust me on that one!

By Elizabeth

July 6, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

Delta Dawn:

Last I checked, this was a police blog, not a dating service. Since my comments were about my experiences with the police, I assumed they were valid. I’m sorry if you feel my otherwise. Maybe you can find someone else to harass on this blog today.

By HAROLD

July 6, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

ELIZABETH SOUND HOT YALL QUIT BUGGIN ON HER.

IF PEACHTREE WAS A LINEAR PARK FOR ATLANTA RESIDENTS INSTEAD OF A ROAD FOR TOURISTS AND COMMUTERS FROM SUBURBS HAROLD WOULD ASK HER ON A PICNIC THERE

By delta dawn

July 6, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

Thanks Harold. I laughed so hard, I fell out of my chair.

By G

July 6, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

This comes down to people who think the rules just don’t apply to them. To highlight, I recently had an airport trip, which we all know the rules by now. It was unbelievable the number of people who really appeared to be genuinely shocked at the airport experience. You mean that whole arrive early for your flight really means arrive early? Or my favorite, the planes departs at say 1:00 doesn’t mean 1:05 or 1:15 and it’s not required to wait on you for takeoff. You know the rules, if you don’t like them, drive. Take a boat or a greyhound or stay home. But stop clogging up the airport and making ridiculous scenes, your just embarrassing yourself and making the airport employees less friendly to the rest of us.

By G

July 6, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

This comes down to people who think the rules just don’t apply to them. To highlight, I recently had an airport trip, which we all know the rules by now. It was unbelievable the number of people who really appeared to be genuinely shocked at the airport experience. You mean that whole arrive early for your flight really means arrive early? Or my favorite, the planes departs at say 1:00 doesn’t mean 1:05 or 1:15 and it’s not required to wait on you for takeoff. You know the rules, if you don’t like them, drive. Take a boat or a greyhound or stay home. But stop clogging up the airport and making ridiculous scenes, your just embarrassing yourself and making the airport employees less friendly to the rest of us.

By SW

July 6, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

Steve, please tell us what is your take on the lady who was p** with TSA and went on television complaining about excessive use of force?? You know, the female who had to clean the water that was poured, dropped, or whatever side you believe. I ask because personally I am more scared of her (causing a ruckus @ an airport and flashing an invalid authoratative badge) than some tourist jaywalking. So yeah…Steve, please tell us or better yet, write an article on that issue…I’m interested to see if it stokes the same passion from you.

By RUChinaDoll

July 6, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

You people are missing the point. So what if he’s an older man who was simply jaywalking? He ignored the officer, refused to give i.d., and resisted. That’s a go-to-jail ticket. Even if an officer is corrupt (not saying that this fellow was), you still have to obey because he has the authority, you don’t. It’s not blind obendience, it’s common sense. Furthermore, the 92 year old woman that you have made into a martyr pointed her gun at the police and started shooting. Their intentions may have been off, but if you shoot at a cop they will fire back. Or are y’all that stupid? I know it’s very tragic and she was someone’s mother, but there are some things you just don’t do, and one of them is threaten an officer by disobedience or weapons.

By Lex Luthor

July 6, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

APD crowd control tatics:

In the weeks that followed 9/11, I observed a APD officer attempt to stop a man wearing a backpack from jaywalking across from the parking deck into CNN Center. After his orders to stop were ignored, the officer and all of the other officers in the area followed the jaywalker into CNN center. Anyone see what’s wrong?

If the jaywalker had a bomb in his backpack, the APD had just let one person take out about 10 of them. If they don’t know that they don’t all approach the unresponsive man carrying a backpack then why would you expect them to be much better at any other aspect of crow control. (Aside from body slaming women at the airport.)

By delta dawn

July 6, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

lol now we have experts to add to PHD Since you were a bystander at the CNN center, you don’t know all that was involved or what it might really be. You ASSUMED and you know what that does.

By Lex Luthor

July 6, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

Why do they put crosswalks in intersections? Why not put them about 15 yards away from intersections? It’s a whole lot easier to look two ways for a car than four ways for a car. I personally will cross a street before I get to an intersection. That way I have less people I have to make eye contact with to make sure they see me. Also drivers in the intersection have less to watch for themselves.

By Richard

July 6, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

C’mon Lex Luthor - that’s just a stupid idea (Why do they put crosswalks in intersections).

Could it be because cars have to stop at intersections and if you put crosswalks in the middle of the driving lane, traffic would never move - cars having to constantly stop.

15 yards from the intersection? Okay, my light is green - I start to go but have to stop for a crosswalk in 15 yards. Now, there’s 20 cars trying to drive behind me and they all have to stop too - some of them are now blocking the intersection we just went through. Yeah, brilliant.

Get a brain.

By harold

July 6, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

cars USED to stop at intersections but now with right-turn yield signs and right turn only lanes with “keep moving” signs they do not

crosswalks should be mid-block with their own red light that activates when pedestrians want to cross

but peachtree should be shut down and turned into a park. no cars on peachtree by july 4 2012 when harold will ask elizabeth on a picnic

By dawg_gone_truth

July 6, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

DeltaDawn Really, not trying to bag on you too much here, but you think like the average German citizen in 1936. You can’t follow blindly, you can’t give up the freedoms and liberty that our ancestors fought and died for.

What is your take on the cops who killed the 92 yr old woman, how would you like it if they came to help if you were getting mugged? Hell they would probably take your cash and jewerly into “evidence” and next thing you know its planted in some kids hand that they had to kill to keep covering their lies. Just try to imagine all those German patriots in the 30’s. I guess if you could you would round up all the undesirables who don’t blindly follow the cops and march them to a camp and burn them huh?

By Lex Luthor

July 6, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

Delta you must be trolling.

Man potentially carrying a bomb: Does one person approach him or dose every one get close enough to get killed? That’s basic tatics and should be part of APD’s training. Likewise there should be better crowd control tatics being employed. How about a rope along the sidewalk when the area is over croweded? It works for Six Flags.

Have you ever watched a bomb crew work? Did you notice no one is looking over the shoulder of the man in the Stay-Puff costume?

By El Bubba

July 6, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

Cops work twelve hour shifts. If they work “Moonlighting”, when do they sleep? Might a police officer’s good judgement, and public safety be at risk?

By Cop Defending Cops

July 6, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

View from a cop: what a tool.

Just another cop defending another cop. They all do it.

Cops suck. Always have always will.

Watch the youtube video of the gangmugging the righteous Atlanta Police put on this professor. Its over the top to say the least.

Jeesus am I glad I am moving away from this cesspool and the subhumans who comment on this blog.

Ill bet every one of them has a big stupid ‘G’ on their cars. Dumb Georgia rednecks.

Atlanta sucks. Its time is long over. Look me up in 10 years when youll all be wanting out due to pollution, no water and uncontrolled development without limit.

There was a reason the Olympics dissed Atlanta. Because they had to spend two weeks in this helllhole.

By dd

July 6, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Whine, whine, whine

By Koala

July 6, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

Man, you’re all out of control with the ‘nazi’ comments and the anti-APD garbage. The English buffoon deserves everything he got and more. He thinks he’s above the law. He’s not. Period. Personally, I think he should have spent a few good days down in the lock up to ponder life. Stupid Judge should never have thrown out the charges. The officer should countersue him! If only ‘stupid’ was illegal.

By Jay

July 6, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

“He ignored the officer, refused to give i.d., and resisted.”

Resisted what? Jaywalking and failure to produce ID are not arrestable offenses. Leonpacher could have just ticketed the professor—still a tremendous waste of time—but decided to get physical for no justifiable reason instead.

By GAResident

July 6, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

I just want to make a couple of clarifications. I’m tired of people misrepresenting this.

Remember, from the professor’s own statements:

I love all of these statements about not “blindly” following authority. Well go rob a bank and try that line with the arresting officers and see what happens. Oh wait, now I’m going to get the “This wasn’t robbing a bank. It was jaywalking” arguments. It is exactly the same when it comes to whether or not you are required by law to stop when a police officer tells you to.

This professor put himself in this situation. He has admitted to as much. The officer did what he had to do. As citizens and visitors of this country, we do not get to choose which laws we have to obey and which ones we can ignore. If you have a dispute with a law, the appropriate place to address it is in court in front of a judge.

By QuestionforJay

July 6, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

Jay,

How do you ticket someone who refuses to ID themselves? Are officers equipped with psychic powers now?

There lies the problem. You can’t ticket someone who walks away from you and refuses to ID themselves.

Please tell me how you can NOT get physical in that situation if you’re serious about enforcing the law?

By jg

July 6, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

Failure to produce an ID isn’t necessarily an offense at all, but jaywalking is a misdemeanor and is arrestable. It’s maybe not as serious as some crimes, but I narrowly avoid a collision on average 4 times a week b/c of jaywalkers in Atlanta. I’m usually willing to blame the cops for alot, and I’m sure the cop could have been more courteous, but the guy probably got tired of telling hundreds of people the same thing to have others in earshot ignoring his warnings.

By harold

July 6, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

this officer was moonlighting for a hotel making extra pocket change off the historians’ convention

this officer was dressed as a security guard

for this officer to have lawful authority that means the public must consider security guards to be actual police officers

that is clearly a illegal extension of the law authority.

a security guard in the employ of a hotel is just a security guard in the employ of a hotel unless he was double dippin like they do all the time and on the officer CLOCK too. he got NO authority when he workin for a hotel. he got to call the on duty officers to come handle things. he can tell you ‘stop’ and you can say ‘up your, security guard’ and go about your business

that officer should lose his officer LICENSE for abuse of badge

he dressed up like a security guard rent a cop but then wanted people to just somehow know he was a real cop at his day job

certainly they all corrupt anyway that is part of why nobody wants to live in atlanta. the other part is that peachtree has cars all over it, and that fact leads to this kind of stupid crap. who is the idiot who lets the cars into what is CLEARLY CLEARLY CLEARLY a WALKABLE PEDESTRIAN ZONE????

get them cars off peachtree.

NO CARS ON PEACHTREE BY JULY 4 2012 when harold asks elizabeth on a picnic

By GaResident

July 6, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

Harold’s comments are almost so stupid that I didn’t respond. However, he blatantly lied about certain things so I felt compelled to respond.

The officer was in full APD uniform. They showed a picture of the jacket he was wearing which clearly was marked in several places ATLANTA POLICE DEPARTMENT.

Also, state law allows for officers to be paid by private employers so long as their department approves of it. They retain their full police powers while employed.

In addition, police officers maintain their law enforcement powers 24 hours per day in this state. They may be limited by their department to when they may take action off duty, but legally they can exercise their police powers any time of day regardless of duty status.

By harold

July 6, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

so GaResident how does it feel.. almost like an encounter with the APD doesn’t it! at least you aint shot

By dawg_gone_truth

July 6, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

actually GAresident Judges don’t make laws, judges are in the judicial branch, it takes the legislative and executive branches to make laws. Harold has a good point, the cop should not be arresting anyone, he is on his second job, the egomaniac that got beat down should sue the hotel, as it was there employee that committed the assault on the pedestrian, the crooked city of Atlanta Police and crooked city of Atlanta are not at fault here as there employee was not being paid by them, unless harold is right about him being on the cities dime, but I do remember something liket that during an allstar game. So no one is blaming a cop here, we are blaming a private security guard who does not have the right to use police procedures on an pedestrian. Sue the hotel you egomaniac above the law profesor.

By kat

July 6, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

How do you ticket someone who refuses to ID themselves? Are officers equipped with psychic powers now?

You don’t. And unless said person has committed some heinous act, why wouldn’t you just let it go? Was a jaywalker really worth this much trouble?

There lies the problem. You can’t ticket someone who walks away from you and refuses to ID themselves.

Agreed. So again, if no earth-shattering crime had been committed, why not let it go? What, specifically about THIS incident, was so important that a 50 year old man needed to be thrown down to the ground? Does the punishment fit the crime here? Or could the off-duty cop in question have handled it much, much better?

Please tell me how you can NOT get physical in that situation if you’re serious about enforcing the law?

There’s “physical” and then there’s “PHYSICAL”. Again, why the need to manhandle the professor to the ground, an act that could have done serious damage to a person of his age? Did perhaps a wee bit of power-trip/ego/testosterone have absolutely NO part of it? I’m inclined to think not.

By harold

July 6, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

pictures are here.
http://hnn.us/roundup/entries/33826.html

only the bicycle cop has POLICE on his back. none has POLICE on the sleeves.

they are bunch of liars.

if some guy in a blue jumpsuit standing on a corner in downtown ATL starts yelling at you after you have been panhandled numberous times already are you going to stop and talk to him? hell no you are going to get away as fast as you can.

the ones on segways with the white shirts and helmets with badges are who look like cops. we talantas know those are the ambassador force, but if you are not from her you would see them and theink THEY are the cops and this crazy man in a blue jumpsuit screaming about jaywalkers is a luntic (which he in fact apparently was)

if the police could control the panhandling and atlanta can get the cars off of peachtree like any reasonable city would do, then this would not have happened

By kat

July 6, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

How do you ticket someone who refuses to ID themselves? Are officers equipped with psychic powers now?

You don’t. And unless said person has committed some heinous act, why wouldn’t you just let it go? Was a jaywalker really worth this much trouble?

There lies the problem. You can’t ticket someone who walks away from you and refuses to ID themselves.

Agreed. So again, if no earth-shattering crime had been committed, why not let it go? What, specifically about THIS incident, was so important that a 50 year old man needed to be thrown down to the ground? Does the punishment fit the crime here? Or could the off-duty cop in question have handled it much, much better?

Please tell me how you can NOT get physical in that situation if you’re serious about enforcing the law?

There’s “physical” and then there’s “PHYSICAL”. Again, why the need to manhandle the professor to the ground, an act that could have done serious damage to a person of his age? Did perhaps a wee bit of power-trip/ego/testosterone have absolutely NO part of it? I’m inclined to think not.

By GAResident

July 6, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

Dawggonetruth,

Thank you for your explanation of the executive and the legislative branches. I am aware that the legislature passes the laws and the executive branch signs off on them.

However, it is the judicial branch that facilitates grievances with said laws by having the ability to rule them unconsitutional. Therefore, as I have said, if you have a problem with a law, in front of a judge is where you fight it.

Also, I know you probably didn’t have time to read my post to Harold. However, the officer was an APD officer in his APD uniform. It didn’t matter who was footing the bill for his salary. He retains his law enforcement authority. Police officers in Georgia don’t lose their authority just because they are off the clock.

By me

July 6, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

In 1992 2 friends of mine were hit by a car AND given tickets because they were not walking in a crosswalk, thereby not yielding to the right of way of a moving vehicle. Has that law changed? If not, I say let folks get hit if they are stupid enough NOT to walk in crosswalks (if there are any) or stupid enough to walk through a bunch of traffic. If the law has changed, I say change it back.

By harold

July 6, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

if the blue jumpsuits in the incident photos are police uniforms , it is time for new uniforms. they look like janitors

By harold

July 6, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

IT ALSO DOES NOT TAKE PHD TO RECOGNZIE THAT PEACHTREE IS THE ONLY WALKABLE PEDESTRIAN ZONE IN THIS ENTIRE CRAP CITY BUT THE IDIOTS IN CHARGE HAVE 4 TO 6 LANES OF TOURIST TRAFFIC DRIVING RIGHT UP THE MIDDLE OF IT!! CLOSE THAT ROAD PERMANENTLY AND MAKE PEACHTREE SOMETHING WORTH SEEING! ATLANTA, DO SOMETHING! DONT JUST HIRE MARKETERS TO TRY TO SELL YOUR GARBAGE! MAKE YOUR CITY GOOD AND THEN IT WILL SELL ITSELF

By HAROLD

July 6, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

WHERE IS THE ATL PD CRACKDOWN ON THE CARS THAT IGNORE PEDESTRIANS IN CROSSWALKS WHILE TURNING??? GET THE DAMN CARS TO STOP FOR CROSSWALKS BEFORE TICKETING PEOPLE FOR WALKING ACROSS THE ROAD WHERE EVER THEY CAN WITHOUT GETTING KILLED

MAKE THE CROSSWALKS SAFE

THEN AND ONLY THEN TICKET THOSE WHO DO NOT USE THEM

By HAROLD

July 6, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

HERE IS NEW BRAND ATLANTA

“COME TO ATLANTA WHERE WE BEAT DOWN PEDESTRIANS WHO IGNORE TRAFFIC RULES BUT WE DON’T BAT AN EYELASH AT DRIVERS DOING WHATEVER THE HELL THEY WANT. YESSS. COME. COME TO ATLANTA.”

By GAResident

July 6, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

“You don’t. And unless said person has committed some heinous act, why wouldn’t you just let it go? Was a jaywalker really worth this much trouble?”

So Kat, are you going to give police officers a handy flipchart that they carry that identifies when they should just “let an offense” go? Why don’t we require that they check your handy chart before deciding whether to react to a situation?

Is a drunk driver heinous enough or should we let that go?

Just who is going to be responsible for determining what offenses should be let go?

Also, are we going to publicly announce that certain offenses are “let it go” offenses? We want people to know when it is ok to just conveniently ignore an officer. After all, I don’t want to pay any pesky traffic tickets. Therefore, if it is a “let it go” offense, I’ll just keep going.

“Agreed. So again, if no earth-shattering crime had been committed, why not let it go? What, specifically about THIS incident, was so important that a 50 year old man needed to be thrown down to the ground? Does the punishment fit the crime here? Or could the off-duty cop in question have handled it much, much better?”

It appears that handling it much better to you would be just to let the professor go. I’m sorry but I don’t agree with that mentality. We have rules and laws for a reason. Yes, we are a free society but we still have to obey the rule of law. Crossing in a crosswalk is not an unreasonable law and it does not infringe on your “rights” or “freedoms” to cross the street.

“There’s “physical” and then there’s “PHYSICAL”. Again, why the need to manhandle the professor to the ground, an act that could have done serious damage to a person of his age? Did perhaps a wee bit of power-trip/ego/testosterone have absolutely NO part of it? I’m inclined to think not.”

It is easier to control a combative person on the ground than it is standing up. It is also easier to keep them from fleeing. Remember, all the professor had to do to keep this from happening was stop and provide his ID for a citation. It really is that simple. You can continue to blame the officer all you want but the outcome of this situation is completely and totally the fault of the professor.

By dawg_gone_truth

July 6, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

Civics my friend GAresident in front of a judge will not get a law changed, but that is splitting hairs that is why there is 3 branches hey? Look at the link Harold posted, uniforms? I think not. Anyway whether he has his law enforcement right or not, he is the employee of the hotel at that time the incident happened and they should be held accountable for his actions not the city of Atlanta. Yeah I think I would have loved to kick that jerk too for jaywalking but I respect the law and much more than that I respect a humans right not to be beaten or tortured no matter what the person doing the beating has police authority. I hear all these people saying these guys are underappreciated and underpaid, if they are really so bitter about it that they have to be rude, or worse resort to violence for jaywalking leave the job, get something else no matter what you think you can be replaced. The person who is doing the beating is wrong in almost every case especially this case.

By harold

July 6, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

a different OUTCOME of the situation was certainly possible for the professor, but, the SITUATION itself is the problem

There should be no cars on peachtree, ever. Peachtree should be a world class linear park.

Police should be clearly idenitifiable as police. Those jumpsuits look liek janitors.

The Ambassador Force confuses the situation. Tourists think THEY are the police, so when a blue jumpsuit starts yelling, it’s a lunatic. run!

The panhandlers are still out of control in BRAND ATLANTA. Until you can reasonalby expect a person approaching you on the street is NOT a panhandler, the police should be identifiable with, hmm, a partner, a traditional police uniform, a police bicycle, golf cart, car… the list goes on. This was a guy in a blue jumpsuit hanging out on a corner yelling at passersby. That is the kind of crap you IGNORE in real cities, but ALtanta will keep its car worhsip and have private vehciles fighting pedestrians on peachtree forever and remain a 3rd class poduck hickville forever too. enjoy.

By harold

July 6, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

those people do have little badges on their shoulders.. do those say atlanta police in a font size you cant read without your face in their armpit? useless. if you cant read POLICE on them from 30 feet, they are not cearly marked as polie like the bicycler officer is. prove those badges dont read “Allied Barton Security” huh. oh, you cant

By Solution Maven

July 6, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

It’s really very simple. Just stop going downtown. Spend your dollars outside the city limits and let the poor tourists deal with police brutality. Then maybe they’ll stop having conventions in Atlanta. Once fewer dollars come into the city, Atlanta will have no choice but to clean up the bully culture of its police force.

The almighty dollar is the only language the city of Atlanta understands. Be a part of the solution by spending your money outside the city limits.

By harold

July 6, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

one burning question is does the Hilton still employ officers from the Atlanta Thug Department? harold suspects it has probably been deemed far too risky. the liability could give the next conventioneer onwership of that hotel. harold would not hire them taht’s for sure

By Caroline

July 6, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this

I hope the professor sues and WINS. Just like that woman who was bodyslammed at the airport by a police officer—she sued and WON.

If I jaywalk, fine, write me a ticket. But DO NOT lay a hand on me. I think the professor should sue Leonpacher personally and try to take away his home and other possessions. I hope Leonpacher has an umbrella insurance policy. He’ll need it.

By RUChinaDoll

July 6, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

So maybe they didn’t have police written on the back of thier coats really big, but did anyone notice those large belts with guns? i didn’t know the panhandlers of atl carried those.

By dawg_gone_truth

July 6, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

Harold you crazy weirdo, with your green ideals have a great weekend and enjoy the fresh smog, and nasty city this weekend. I hope you get sarcasm!

By Dale

July 6, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

Funny, I have had a LARGE number of encounters with the police in my 41 years. Sometimes they were on my side, sometimes they were not. I have never been body slammed or abused. There have been two jerks in that time. I have refused an officers direction, but only when it was unreasonable. I have never been arrested. Maybe it is because I treat them with respect.

I wonder why I have been left out of the Nazi cop beatdowns?

By Robert

July 6, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

Caroline stay in the woods, the officer at the airport was cleared of all wrong doing and is working at APD now. The city got crazy like you and it cost them some money. If you violate the law and try to walk off I can guarentee a hand will be put on you. The professor had better hope that Leonpacker and the Union does not sue him . Many police unions are now taking action agains this type of BS, SO NEXT TIME before you go down town check your insurance policy if you plan on breaking the law, better yet just stay in your neighborhood and break the law, those of us who live downtown respect our police.

By Mark

July 6, 2007 5:58 PM | Link to this

I go to work every night (hours you would never work), leaving a wife and children behind (unlike you, mine wonder if they will see me the next morning), and put my life on the line to protect not only the pro-police in this blog, but those who seem to be vehemently anti-police. And I’ll do it again tomorrow, and the next day, so that some of you people will have the right to bash me and my co-workers.

Why do I do it? It’s not the sub-par paycheck that you would never accept. It’s not the privilege of being spit on or cursed at. It’s for my love of humanity and my desire to serve others. Aside from the other officers in this blog, I seriously doubt ANY of you would survive one day in my shoes. Most of you wouldn’t even try it for one day anyway. Even though I know that (whether or not you’ll deny it) I’ll still go to work and risk my life to protect yours.

I won’t even ask for a “thank you” .. because I know I’ll never get one anyway. My thanks comes in the form of a happy wife and child when I return home from a 12 hour morning watch shift.

I pray that this world will change its attitude toward police officers. If all of the good seeds are run off because of the constant mention of the bad seeds, what kind of world would we live in? Not that you care anyway, right?

Sit back and tell me what a waste of space I am. I’ll just smile as I drive to work tonight, ready to protect the very people that can’t stand the fact that I exist.

By Mark

July 6, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this

I go to work every night (hours you would never work), leaving a wife and children behind (unlike you, mine wonder if they will see me the next morning), and put my life on the line to protect not only the pro-police in this blog, but those who seem to be vehemently anti-police. And I’ll do it again tomorrow, and the next day, so that some of you people will have the right to bash me and my co-workers.

Why do I do it? It’s not the sub-par paycheck that you would never accept. It’s not the privilege of being spit on or cursed at. It’s for my love of humanity and my desire to serve others. Aside from the other officers in this blog, I seriously doubt ANY of you would survive one day in my shoes. Most of you wouldn’t even try it for one day anyway. Even though I know that (whether or not you’ll deny it) I’ll still go to work and risk my life to protect yours.

I won’t even ask for a “thank you” .. because I know I’ll never get one anyway. My thanks comes in the form of a happy wife and child when I return home from a 12 hour morning watch shift.

I pray that this world will change its attitude toward police officers. If all of the good seeds are run off because of the constant mention of the bad seeds, what kind of world would we live in? Not that you care anyway, right?

Sit back and tell me what a waste of space I am. I’ll just smile as I drive to work tonight, ready to protect the very people that can’t stand the fact that I exist.

By Mark

July 6, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this

I go to work every night (hours you would never work), leaving a wife and children behind (unlike you, mine wonder if they will see me the next morning), and put my life on the line to protect not only the pro-police in this blog, but those who seem to be vehemently anti-police. And I’ll do it again tomorrow, and the next day, so that some of you people will have the right to bash me and my co-workers.

Why do I do it? It’s not the sub-par paycheck that you would never accept. It’s not the privilege of being spit on or cursed at. It’s for my love of humanity and my desire to serve others. Aside from the other officers in this blog, I seriously doubt ANY of you would survive one day in my shoes. Most of you wouldn’t even try it for one day anyway. Even though I know that (whether or not you’ll deny it) I’ll still go to work and risk my life to protect yours.

I won’t even ask for a “thank you” .. because I know I’ll never get one anyway. My thanks comes in the form of a happy wife and child when I return home from a 12 hour morning watch shift.

I pray that this world will change its attitude toward police officers. If all of the good seeds are run off because of the constant mention of the bad seeds, what kind of world would we live in? Not that you care anyway, right?

Sit back and tell me what a waste of space I am. I’ll just smile as I drive to work tonight, ready to protect the very people that can’t stand the fact that I exist.

By Tony

July 6, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this

So many stupid people in such a small area. Harold, you must of attended a Georgia school. For all of you “people” that hate police officers, don’t worry, we don’t care. As long as our family and friends care about us, that’s all we need. When you need someone to come and help you because you’re either too stupid or too much of a wimp, call a criminal (I’m sure they’ll be happy to help).

By Common Sense

July 6, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this

What if, just what if someone got killed while crossing the downtown street during visit to an Atlanta convenion? Everyone will be hysterical because their was not enough police presence and intervention for people who can’t provide for their own safety. If the police ignore the seemingly small issues, then folks get hurt. Drivers in Atlanta have no regard for traffic laws and/or visitors and residents crossing the street. If one wishes to cross the street, he/she certainly is entitled to do so, moreover, they assume the risk associated with walking in traffic where drivers are on their cell phones, setting the GPS for the next arrival, and watching You Tube on the Iphone. The the hysterical crowd will point the fingers at the police who stood idly by and watched because he remebered the last time he got complained on for doing his job. How many COP shows do you have to watch before you realize that you are going to get your a.. kicked and brought to jail for not following directions. Or, you could get speedbumped by a Marta Bus if you prefer to not be characterized as a blind follower.

By Cop Defending Cops

July 6, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

Dammn ive never seen so many people defend crooked cops. Its truly disgusting….but then so is Atlanta and Georgia as a whole.

Any population that would elect Newt Gingrich, Saxby Chambliss, and Zig Zag Zell Miller doesnt rank on the humanity scale.

Dumb idiots that know nothing other than misspelled ‘dog’ football are world class goobers.

The word is out on Atlanta. People are leaving this area in DROVES. For the diehards that defend it you can have it. Its going to be absolutely wonderful watching crisis after crisis and utter meltdown of this p** poorly planned garbage heap make national news while im sitting next to my pool in paradise.

Good luck cretins and I hope the ‘dogs’ lose all their games this year. Now go sleep with your sister and build more stills Bo and Luke.

By Lt. Steve

July 6, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this

why….can’t we all just get…..along.

By Lt. Steve

July 6, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

Don’t misunderstand the term “goober.” Not all convention participants are goobers. There are goobers in every walk of life—whatever that means. Some of you without the short term memory loss may recall that I wrote about “Police Goobers” who wear about a dozen extra guns, knives, handcuffs, on them, all the time…I think I wrote about it—I don’t remember. Find a group of people in any form, and you’ll find goobers.They’re harmless, just confused.

By Justice

July 6, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

Maybe the professor has not seen the movie Forrest Gump.”Stupid is as stupid does”. Get a life back where ever you came from.

By Investigate IAD

July 6, 2007 10:19 PM | Link to this

Thank you to Mark. I appreciate all you do. Stay safe.

By Dennis

July 6, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

Sounds like we are dealing with a stupid, not dumb, professor and there ain’t no cure for stupid. Right on Mr. Policeman.

By The72John

July 6, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this

This discussion has nothing to do with hating all policemen. It concerns abhoring the actions of ONE policeman, who abused his authority and used excessive force to resolve a situation involving one of the most minor misdemeanors possible.

There are certainl many, many commendable policeman in Atlanta, the state of Georgia, the United States, and the world as a whole. That is without question. Many of them are underpaid and overworked. That is also without question.

However, I have to wonder at the outrage shown by many at this situation. I have to wonder how much of the negative sentiment expressed towards the professer in question stems from the fact that he in an academic and a foreigner. So many people commenting here seem to be filled with venom and hatred at him for those two factors alone.

I also have to wonder at the self-righteousness expressed by the police officers commenting on this topic. After all, it’s no secret that members of the various police departments and their families drive about with stickers on their cars that allow them a free “Get out of jail” card whenever they committ traffic violations that are on par with, or even more egregious, than simple jaywalking.

It’s very hard to credit the outrage from many commentors when one realizes that the same police officer who hurled this man to the ground, and those who helped to subdue him with extreme physical force, are routinely allowed to avoid speeding tickets or tickets for running stop signs or traffic lights simply because they are police officers.

Shouldn’t the police be held to a HIGHER standard, rather than a lesser one? I certainly can’t applaud an officer bullying someone for committing an act that he himself would be given a pass on.

By USMC2NDGEN

July 6, 2007 11:50 PM | Link to this

since not everyone is understanding what has happened this prof. was asked many times to use the crosswalk. he refused. he was then ordered to use the sidewalk. he refused. he was then stopped by a uniformed atlanta police officer, yes uniformed there harold, if you even looked at the pictures you linked to you can clearly see the patches on every officers shoulders wearing the blue janitors uniform you so childishly stated. he refused to be stopped. the officer put hands on to stop the man. he finally stopped. the officer asked for his ID. the man refused and demanded that the officer prove who he was. the officer asked 4 more times for his ID. the man refused all 4 of these times. the officer then went to put handcuffs on the non compliant criminal. the man started to fight with the officer and started to push the officer. the officer put him to the ground.the officer had more patience and respect for this man than 99% of anybody in this blog. so please dont arm chair quarterback this. dont just go by what you read in the ajc or by talking with your “bros”.

By USMC2NDGEN

July 6, 2007 11:52 PM | Link to this

since not everyone is understanding what has happened this prof. was asked many times to use the crosswalk. he refused. he was then ordered to use the sidewalk. he refused. he was then stopped by a uniformed atlanta police officer, yes uniformed there harold, if you even looked at the pictures you linked to you can clearly see the patches on every officers shoulders wearing the blue janitors uniform you so childishly stated. he refused to be stopped. the officer put hands on to stop the man. he finally stopped. the officer asked for his ID. the man refused and demanded that the officer prove who he was. the officer asked 4 more times for his ID. the man refused all 4 of these times. the officer then went to put handcuffs on the non compliant criminal. the man started to fight with the officer and started to push the officer. the officer put him to the ground.the officer had more patience and respect for this man than 99% of anybody in this blog. so please dont arm chair quarterback this. dont just go by what you read in the ajc or by talking with your “bros”.

By Missandie

July 7, 2007 12:19 AM | Link to this

I have to admit, I am now enlightened. There are many US cities that do not have jaywalking laws and until this occurred, I had no idea this was law in Atlanta. I have jaywalked on many occasions with no clue that I was “breaking the law”. I grew up here in the States but my mum is London. Over there, you cross the street where ever it is convenient. Had I been stopped by a member of Atlanta’s finest, I know I would have been dumbfounded and would hope that I would not have been so shocked that I would not have followed the officer’s command. I’m afraid I would have taken it as a joke. Just recently,a woman from Tennessee was caught with a handgun at Sears Tower in Chicago. She had a conceal carry permit but handguns have been outlawed in Chicago since 1982 (unless your permit was grandfathered). This poor woman had no idea and now she is being charged with a felony. I am not saying the professor should not have been arrested, ignorance of the law is no excuse. I just don’t think it should have gone that far. Now before someone decides to take me to task, I am not anti-police or anti-authority. I come from a long line of both municipal and military officers. My uncle would be the first to admit, there are some officers who cross the line and luckily they are few and far between. To me, he crossed the line when he threw the professor down to the ground.

By Mark

July 7, 2007 4:40 AM | Link to this

First off, to Investigate IAD.. Thank you for your support. It’s rare to receive, and even more rare to hear, so.. To you and yours.. Thank you. It means a lot to hear kind words, because these days they are almost non existant.

People, think! You might have had a bad experience with a police officer, but does that mean that all police officers are bad? Have you ever called (Company X) and had a bad experience with a customer service rep? I don’t know anyone that can say they haven’t. You don’t boycott (Company X) because of one bad experience with a customer service rep, so why would you treat the police, the guys and gals sworn to protect you, the same?

Yes, I’ll be the first to admit, there are good officers and bad officers. Regardless of your experiences, it is unfair to curse all officers if you’ve had one (or more, admittedly) bad experience(s). I’ve been a police officer for 10 years, and have ZERO sustained complaints against me. Does that mean that I’m as bad as that guy/gal that issued you a lawful command, even though you don’t think you should have had to follow the command? No. But, you think.. All police are the same, right? So why can’t I think that all civilians are the same (thugs) and treat you as such? Fair is fair, right?

Think about it before you give anything less than full credit to the Police Officer in front of you. You don’t know what that officer has gone through. All you do know is that officer has gone through more in one day than you will in a lifetime. A “thank you” .. instead of a “f$$k you” .. won’t hurt. In case I can’t change your mind, I (and my fellow officers) will still be there to protect your right to be safe enough to curse us.

Enjoy it. And, without a thank you.. You’re welcome. Happy to do it. Even though you’ll never understand me.

By judy

July 7, 2007 6:23 AM | Link to this

Lets face it!! We all know Good Cop, Bad Cop, Good drug dealer, Bad drug dealer? Good speeder, Bad speeder? Lets face it there is nothing a Peace officer could do to please you all. BUT if you were on the other end, WHO do you call first? Next time remember your comments and deal with the drug dealer,murderers, personal assaults, robbery’s, carjackers, and thiefs all by your little own self.

By Rob

July 7, 2007 8:57 AM | Link to this

Seems everyone has very strong opinions on this subject. Police in some other parts of the world are very different from most Police in the USA. Police in the USA have the attitude that “whatever they say goes” and they will arrest you if you do not agree with them and do exactly what they say. That concept is a little difficult for some of us.

One thing I am sure of is that the Prof was a visitor in Atlanta and he was thrown to the ground and arrested because he simply wanted to cross the street and one of Atlanta’s finest decide “to make his day.”

Right or wrong, culture does play a role and the best thing to do is to simply stay away from Atlanta Police because they have a gun and a badge and most have an attitude.

I wonder how many people really feel like Police are there to help. I think I can safely cross the street without the help of a police officer.

By ftp

July 7, 2007 9:31 AM | Link to this

lt. steve is a “goober” for perpetuating the typical southern-idiot stereotype. (But please don’t “misunderstand” the term “goober”…wtf)

By ftp

July 7, 2007 9:34 AM | Link to this

lt. steve is a “goober” for perpetuating the typical southern-idiot stereotype. (But please don’t “misunderstand” the term “goober”…wtf)

By Carbon Footprint

July 7, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this

The arrested Brit was the infamous “Uni-Stroller”. If he had slipped through that tight security screen those cops had set up, who knows how many Cheatah Girls would have been oogled. Good Job, Atlanta pd!

Another dastardly attempt by the bi-pedalists to take away our Americanishern Vay of Liffing! (datz right hanz)

By Lee

July 7, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

Let’s just cut to the chase here;

• There are many who wear the gun and badge that are a*****.

• Recalling my college days, there are a lot of Phd types who think their s** doesn’t stink.

When the two meet, it makes for an interesting blog topic.

By Sarge

July 7, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

I think the majority of the problem is this, the majority of society understand the role of law enforcement. It is to protect victim’s from crime and try to keep basic order in society. I understand that people will not understand or respect the job that I and many of my fellow officers do. But, for the APD to just walk away from the Jaywalking Professor is unreasonable. We cannot pick and choose the confrontations that are brought to us. The Professor decided to become beligerant. There is always the correct way to question a police officers actions. But becoming beligerant and abusive to the officer is never correct. There is a “freedom of speech” but there are also some consequences for the way you use your speech. Its a double edged sword sometimes.

By Neil

July 7, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

Thats why I would rather police in the “hood”, folks are actually more respecting of your authority there than in midtown and buckhead. It’s like policing children there! If you tell someone something they respond with questions like WHY or Why not. BECAUSE I SAID SO!!!!

By Reginald

July 7, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

Steve,

I think you struck a nerve with this one. Many varying opinions being stated.

By Buddy El

July 7, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Michael; Apparently you are not qualified to be a government employee.As you should know, the police are there to help all of us and from your comments you, more so than the average “Nobody tells me what to do” looney, should not be out on the streets without a chaperone.

By Buddy El

July 7, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

Kudos to Mark and Judy. I likeand appreciate the way you think.

By John

July 7, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

This guy didn’t want to obey state law and obstructed an officer. State law says YOU HAVE TO OBEY AN OFFICER DIRECTING TRAFFIC! If you don’t like it then you might get into trouble. I don’t care if you don’t like police, or the law, its still a valid law. Period.

By S. Moon

July 7, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

I guess the good professor survived the police hostility gauntlet at the Atlanta airport only to be waylaid by
the authority crazed cops downtown.

The moral of the story is don’t attend conventions in a city that doesn’t treat visitors with respect.

I tell my friends from other place not to bother visiting Atlanta.

By caveman22

July 7, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

I have spent my entire 40yr life in Atl and I have to say that it’s not hard to tell who the cops are. They do have those nice uniforms and they do use every opportunity they get to order the public around. On many occassions I have been made to walk or drive in opposite directions from where I was going simply because the officer said so. Not construction, or an accident, or a crime scene, just being in traffic and having the officer decide that everyone in my lane needs to go in another direction. Just because they say so and not for any other reason, and they say that to your face. So even though I agree with the prof. getting his citation I also believe that he is not exaggerating too much about the officers attitude. I wasn’t there but experience with Atl’s “finest” is enough to go on to make an impression of their overall competence and people skills.

By GA_FF

July 7, 2007 5:39 PM | Link to this

From the GA CODE book

§ 40-6-92. Crossing roadway elsewhere than at crosswalk

(a) Every pedestrian crossing a roadway at any point other than within a marked crosswalk or within an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection shall yield the right of way to all vehicles upon the roadway unless he has already, and under safe conditions, entered the roadway.

(b) Any pedestrian crossing a roadway at a point where a pedestrian tunnel or overhead pedestrian crossing has been provided shall yield the right of way to all vehicles upon the roadway if he uses the roadway instead of such tunnel or crossing.

(c) Between adjacent intersections at which traffic-control signals are in operation, pedestrians shall not cross at any place except in a marked crosswalk.

(d) No pedestrian shall cross a roadway intersection diagonally unless authorized by official traffic-control devices. When authorized to cross diagonally, pedestrians shall cross only in accordance with the official traffic-control devices pertaining to such crossing movements.

**As you can see, pedestrians do NOT have the right of way if they are not in a crosswalk and one is provided. Pedestrians IN a crosswalk can also be given a ticket if they cross and the crossing signs(if present) were red, ordering not to cross.

It doesn’t matter if the offense was jaywalking, speeding, assault or murder, the laws are in place for a reason. Just because it inconvienances you does not mean the law can be ignored.**

By For The Record

July 7, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this

OK, I don’t normally do more than read through these comments and shake my head, but I have to speak up on this one.
Quit your bickering.
Let me put some perspective on it for you. I work for a company that is very fond of the “rent a cop” and we have very good reason. We have heavy traffic in and out of our business all day long, and their use on Peachtree has become quite necessary because even when visitors and employees use the crosswalk on Peachtree St, you are still taking your like into your own hands because dumb a** drivers ignore you anyway in their rush to get where ever they are going 10 seconds sooner. We live in a society where time is more valuable than life.

How many of you out there are aware that in the State of Georgia, a pedestrian in a crosswalk always has the right of way? Not many I would assume since recently we had an employee crossing against the light, although in the crosswalk, mowed down, and killed instantly. Now, yes, she was wrong not to wait for the light, I certainly would not do that on Peachtree St, but it was early in the morning, no traffic was coming from either direction, so she took the risk….and a car moving at least the speed limit, if not faster didn’t have time to react and avoid hiting her, not even any skid marks at the scene. That very same thing could have happened to this Educated Professor. That is what this Police Officer was ultimately trying to do, the job he was hired to do. Put aside your personal prejudices against the City of Atlanta, the Military, Police Officers in general and try to put some persepctive on it. How many times do you think in his career has this Officer had to respond, or tell a family member that a loved one was seriously injured, or dead in just this type of situation? The job does not stop when they clock out. They have to take these outside jobs to support their families, they are humans like the rest of us. Also, they have to have the authority (yeah, what you call abuse of power, arrogance, whatever) to get the job done when they are facing down the smart a** punks on the other side, that’s a little hard to turn off, because you never can predict when a situation can change. That harmless frail man could have been armed, as absurd as the notion may be, it happens in every city all the time. As you can see, this “frail educated professor” so far has not stopped in his quest to prove he has been wronged, and look how much of the taxpayors money he has wasted so far, considering the judge dropped all charges the next day, and as someone wrote, why is it still news? This old man is a bulldog with a bone! So before passing judgement, try walking a mile in someones shoes. We would all be better for it, instead of bickering back and forth and name calling. There are 3 sides to every story, yours, mine and the truth.

By a monti

July 7, 2007 8:32 PM | Link to this

Watching a Cops show the other night in Mardi Gra new orleans.

Lady cop assisting in arrest of drunk student. One cop takes the guy and walks past the lady cop who is dealing with his girlfriend. So the guy jumps and pushs the lady cop, and he is then wrestled to the ground and cuffed.

Lady cop offended by the push, pulls her tazer and tazers the guy not once but twice while he is laying on the ground in handcuffs.

Cops get carried away. No one said a thing to her.

By Mike

July 7, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this

Each and every day I talk to more and more people that are just sick and tired of the police. My tax dollars are going to waste if this cop is harassing people for jay walking. Give me a break. Until all the terrorists, murderes, rapists, drug dealers, and violent criminals are taken care of I could care less about jaywalking or speeding.

Just this week yet ANOTHER UNARMED man was shot dead by a cop in cobb. Cops breaking into a house of a 92 year old women and planting evidence, and shooting her dead. Why would I blindly listen to an organization that causes more crime then they stop. The police are the worst gang we have here in metro Atlanta.. It’s time to clean it up.

For all you sheep that blindly listen to the pigs remember when your face down and getting hit with the nightstick for jaywalking.. You just remember this post.. Not this guy…

By blah blah

July 7, 2007 10:25 PM | Link to this

At some point they will clean up APD at that point it will be fun making fun of all the ex-cops that are no garbage men because they lost thier power and are to dumb to do anything else. Let’s all just forward to that day.

@NEIL

You work for me. Not the other way around. People have every right to ask you why.

By disgusted at stupidity

July 7, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

The States of the Union are States with police, not Police States. Policeman in this country are not imbued with absolute authority. They are not empowered to dictate to others how they behave. A policeman in this country is entitled to use his power to ticket someone who commits a misdemeanor. He or she is not, and should not, be empowered to wrestle someone to the ground for committing a misdemeanor.

Whatever many of you sheep think, a badge does not make one God. The “police” of Cold-war East Germany, or Romania, were empowered to use physical force on anyone who didn’t “submit” to their authority. That isn’t the case in this country.

All of you who complain about people who “don’t want to be told what to do”…you just don’t get it. Your Civics education was either never completed or you forgot it long ago. Objecting to or resisting an unreasonable exercise of force is not tantamount to anarchy - it’s exactly what this nation was built on. Most of you have minds so tiny that you can barely comprehend the simplest points of law - how can you be expected to understand a society built around individual freedom?

How many of you fools speed on your way to work? How many of you don’t come to a complete stop at a stop sign? How many of you self-righteous prats violate statute after statute on a daily basis? I’ll bet you that almost EVERY one of you - EVERY one of you ranting and raving about how this man deserved to be beaten and cuffed by “upstanding” policemen - break laws EVERY…SINGLE…DAY. JUST LIKE HE DID.

You people don’t deserve to live in this country - you deserve to live in the places where people are treated the way you seem to think people should be treated. You CERTAINLY don’t appreciate your Constitutional rights. Off to Saudi Arabia with all of you! Morality Police there will be happy to bash in your skulls while you say nothing..because after all, it’s the LAW, and sheep should never question the law.

Moronic trash.

By BurbHater

July 7, 2007 11:39 PM | Link to this

@ blah blah

Neil isn’t your shoeshine boy. Enjoy getting thrown to the ground and cuffed when you think a cop is there to argue the fine points of Georgia law.

And stick to the question “why?”, since putting together a coherent sentence is way beyond your capabilities. You’re on a much quicker track to fill that garbage collecting slot than anyone else.

By For The Record

July 7, 2007 11:42 PM | Link to this

You people just don’t get it. This is not about “following like sheep” I would be willing to bet every one of you goof heads are channeling Neil Boortz. He does not even believe half the crap coming out of his own mouth. I listen to him every day for ENTERTAINMENT. You cannot think you have any right to ignore the commands of a police officer and get away with it. That does not make you a sheep. We are not a police state, (what a far fetched notion) and I am willing to bet every one of you bashing the police would not for an instant hesitate to call 911 in an emergency and sing their praises after they came to your aid. Quit bashing the poor men who put their lives on the line every day for your sorry butts. They are trying their best to do one of the most unappreciated jobs in this city. Having seen someone get killed by a speeding car while in a crosswalk, get over it, get on with your lives. Oh, and don’t forget, we do have “the most credible and unbiased newspaper and television reporting” in the country, so of course you are getting the full story. Talk about sheep……

By Sarge

July 8, 2007 12:38 AM | Link to this

After reading this wonderfull blog, I see how the citizens out there really appreciate what I do. I was wondering how long it would take Mike to call us PIGS. I enjoy a good logical debate but when people stoop to the bowels of hatred and anger as Mike has it makes it hard to maintain a cool head. As I drive throughout the area of my patrol looking for those wanted to victimize people like Mike, I must maintain a cool head and remember that I do this job for the decent part of society that I enjoy protecting. Not inconsiderate persons such as Mike. In the decade that I’ve been a police officer, I am full of memories of the people that have said “thank you” and told me how much they appreciate my service. Not the A-holes suck as Mike and his fellow anarchist. I am not pretending that all cops are like me… surely the stupid Neal Street cops deserve more than what is coming to them. It just sucks that I have to deal with the comments of Mike and the like because of the actions of other stupid cops that make me and my fellow hard working, loyal, respectfull, dedicated, and true soldiers of the homeland job that much harder. And finally, Mike you can EMA.

By Tony

July 8, 2007 2:02 AM | Link to this

I’d love to see every law enforcement officer in Georgia take two weeks off at the same time (impossible I know, but it would be interesting). Then let’s see the dips**ts (like the anti-police ones on here) fend for themselves.

By Tony

July 8, 2007 2:30 AM | Link to this

This is for the clueless people like Mike. A person DOES NOT have to be armed with a weapon where deadly force can be used against them. The same law that dictates when I can use deadly force is the same law that applies to you and the rest of society. Don’t armchair quarterback the Cobb County officer (you weren’t there and you have no idea what happened). You probably would of been found on the ground in the fetal position sucking your thumb. WE don’t have “special laws” that apply just to police officers. I have absolutely no problem with cops that go beyond their authority getting arrested, fired or both. We have had a few officers in my department that went beyond their authority and they are no longer employed. My chief has no problem getting rid of people like that and I know that he has the support of the department. I,like Sarge, have heard more thank you’s and how my service is appreciated than the negative comments from some jerkwad. Lastly, if I go to arrest someone and they resist, they are going to the ground. This isn’t freakin Mayberry.

By lionelhutz

July 8, 2007 2:39 AM | Link to this

Academic-types have WAY too much free time on their hands. Maybe if they took away tenure he would have some real work to do.

By j

July 8, 2007 7:48 AM | Link to this

Cops suck for the most part because many are looking for that high of arresting someone. Bas*

By Rob

July 8, 2007 8:59 AM | Link to this

I always think it is so interesting and so ignorant when people say what if the police all took a week off? What would the rest of us do?

What if all the doctors, nurses, sanitation workers, etc. took two weeks off?

The issue is why can’t the police do their job without always cracking heads and being bullies? All the rest of us have standards.

Throwing professors to the ground and shooting old ladies in their own home just doesn’t seem reasonable and the rest of the world doesn’t think so either.

So the police on here can just continue to say how right they are but, I for one, would like the opportunity to respect police rather than fearing their “you are going down attitude.”

It is not a matter of do we need police, it is a matter of do the police understand their job? It used to say “To serve and protect” on squad cars. It should say “to beat and arrest.”

I haven’t been beaten or arrested by the police. It is the image Atlanta Police have.

The true image is that the police do little about real crime and spend most of their time “p** off the public” to quote some of my cop friends. They are stuck in high school.

By comp133xi7y

July 8, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

lionelhutz, you are an idiot. The average college professor works 60-80 hours a week.

By Jon

July 8, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

I hope the cops do their jobs, they want to bust jaywalkers but don’t do anything about the hookers and drug dealers in Atlanta. It’s doesn’t take a PhD to understand which should be taken care of first.

By Mie

July 8, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

@Sarge

In order to be appreciated you have to do something worthwhile that I can appreciate. It’s been sometime now since the APD have been productive in fighting crime. Just a month or so ago was an article on the front page of AJC showing stats how violent crime has risen dramtically over the last year. What is being done? You decide to fight jaywalking and a hooker in duluth! GREAT I feel so much safer.

The best part about your response is the name calling. I did use pigs and you condoned it as you should. Then you proceed to use name calling and finally very professionally gave me an EMA. I suppose it was ok for you to show that kind of hatred but its not ok for me. Thats alright we are used to the double standards when dealing with the PD.

Your right Sarge, not all cops are like you. Thankfully there are a few and I mean very few good ones that aren’t in the same class as you and the rest of your thugs.

By John

July 8, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

I’m tired of hearing people complain about about the police and crime. If your only solution about it is complaining on a forum then keep it too yourself. If the job is so easy then why dont you apply. Probably every agency in metro atlanta is hiring. And lets not forget that Police Officer’s are human beings and not some foreign entity. They are truly real americans trying to keep this country safe. Even while underpaid and unappreciated.

By Mike

July 8, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

Who do you complain to? The cheif of police? Yea he has done a great job. I make twice what the police make why would I want to be a cop and take a pay cut? Just common sense man really.

By Buena

July 8, 2007 5:41 PM | Link to this

The problem is not that a PHD must understand the police. The new went around the world because the PHD with a good record had to sleep in Yale with criminals and the police was very heavy with this good man. Not good for a friendly city that is pro conventions.

By GaLiberal

July 8, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

The problem with police - and the APD in particular - is they believe they ARE the law. Cops are trained to use force to ensure compliance with everything they say. If you don’t comply, you’ll wind up eating concrete while a cop screams for backup. Further, they are NOT trained to handle people from different backgrounds. I was in London recently and jaywalking was a necessity because traffic is so conjested. If you wait for traffic to clear, you’ll be there a very long time. The APD cop WAS NOT justified in arresting him dispite what the APD review board found. No conflict of interest there. A GOOD cop would have simply talked to him and explained that here it isn’t permitted. Better yet, the city should put up signs directing people not to cross in the street.

I hope Dr. Fernandez-Armesto does persue a damage claim against the city and the police in particular. They need to know their power is limited. Hell, they lied to get a no-knock search warrant and outright killed an 89-year old woman for no reason. The APD initially said the cops were justifed because she shot at them first. Only after conflicts with their story arose was there a state and federal investigation. Otherwise, there would have been no justice.

However, the good doctor should be greatful it didn’t happen in Cobb County. There they would have shot him dead and called it a clean shoot. They know that dead men can’t defend themselves.

By TechWreck

July 8, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

sigh

Just because something isn’t a law in your country, you shouldn’t have to comply in the country you are visiting? New World Order, indeed.

I love how people that WERE NOT THERE seem to know enough about the situation to fully proclaim Dr. Fernandez’s innocence. Just because you folks have a problem with abiding by the laws doesn’t mean that you (or the doctor) are correct.

BTW, “GaLiberal”, perhaps the “good doctor” should’ve not become belligerent. I guess we shouldn’t expect that of the world citizenry, though, right?

By comp133xi7y

July 8, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this

New World Order? What is that, some kind of ignorant, superstitious right-wing fundamentalist religious nonsense? Been reading the “Left Behind” series a little too much, have we?

It’s really simple. People jaywalk every day, all over this country. They speed. They park in no-parking zones. They violate misdemeanor-class laws ALL THE TIME.

This man was brutalized by police because he was a foreigner, plain and simple. An Atlanta citizen caught jaywalking would never have been subjected to the excessive force used by the police officer in question.

All of you applauding this treatment are, I GUARANTEE you, guilty of similar violations. I drive in Atlanta traffic all the time, and 75% of the people on the road make improper lane changes, speed like demons, swerve in traffic…in short, you all commit acts far more dangerous than simple jaywalking across an intersection where traffic is already moving slowly.

You people prattling on about law and order are a JOKE, becauase NONE of you give a damn about law and order when it inconveniences you, or prevents you from getting from point A to point B a few minutes earlier. The only reason you are so gung-ho about this situtation is that the person in question is foreign, and smarter than you.

By Blue Dove

July 9, 2007 3:41 AM | Link to this

TO comp133xi7y: Apparently you have read the official investigation report. Glad you let us know the professor had very visible ,markings indicating he was a foreigner. Hey, btw, what were those markings which indicated to the Officer that the professor was a foreigner or tourist? Not his dress or accent, surely. ATL is an international city with citizens from many different cultures and countries as I found out recently when visiting downtown and conversing with some of them them at length. Now if this happened in little ole Sandersville Ga we might understand as there is seldom someone of foreign decent jaywalking locally. Sounds like your mouth/hand was in motion while your brain was not fully in gear when you posted. BTW, how do you get the professor is smarter than others that post. Did you include yoursewlf in that group? My uncle and aunt both have PHd’s. He’s a post hole digger and she’s a professional hair dresser. And I bet the Officer is a PHd himself but doesn’t flaunt it. I’m know he’s a “pretty hardworking dude” as he was working a second job as he is not fairly compensated in his primary job. I know, I wore a badge for 23 years. The rewards of helping people was great but rewards don’t pay the bills. Let’s give him a raise. What ya think? Maybe then he can afford to pay the ole jolly fellow a visit in Britain one day and have some noon tea.

By Bob

July 9, 2007 4:50 AM | Link to this

Its people like ya’ll (the anti police ones) That make me enjoy my job that much more when it comes time to arrest you. Thanks for the job security. If you have a problem “being orderd around” Move out of the country and see what its really like to have no freedom. Ya’ll have a blessed day.

By boots

July 9, 2007 7:41 AM | Link to this

Don’t know anything about this incident with the professor, but was on the receiving end of a “tantrum” by an airport policeman.

Forturnately, I avoided getting body-slamed by keeping my mouth shut. But it sure was embarrassing for the city and everybody that witnessed the childish tantrum.

By WFC

July 9, 2007 7:45 AM | Link to this

Harold…… I’m sorry that you cannot afford a car but I’ll continue to drive on Peachtree until it is declared illegal. Then, I’ll obey the law and stop. Jaywalking isn’t mugging but it does create a dangerous situation whether the prof thinks so or not. I spent a month in London a few years ago and made it a point to obey the laws there. I realized that I was a guest there and that it was up to me to obey English laws whether I agreed with them or not. My son won’t be applying to “Tufts.”

By Bob in Sandy Springs

July 9, 2007 7:47 AM | Link to this

Harummmph!! Harummmph!!

By Becky

July 9, 2007 8:21 AM | Link to this

I was raised to hate all police officers..Then as I got older, I realized that it wasn’t the police that were in the wrong, it was my brother’s that were always in the wrong. I now have nothing but respect for any officer of the law. Yes, I’m sure there are some bad ones out there, but for the most part I think they are good. So to all men & women in law enforcement, I would like to say thank you for putting your life on the line every day so that yes, people like me & others can b*h & fuss about stupid people doing stupid stuff…

By RH

July 9, 2007 8:55 AM | Link to this

A poor doctor got his ego stepped on……aaahhhh….poor baby. Why do doctors seems like some of the dumbest people when it comes to common sense? I’m not sure about you, but I have worked around many doctors, and most of them are complete idiots. Anyone can have a PHD, if they are just willing to attend and put in the time. It is just like a college degreee, you hardly need to work at it. All you need to do is show up. Now, instead of being an idiot, you are an idiot with a college degree.

By Jimmy

July 9, 2007 9:03 AM | Link to this

It’s guys like Bob that make Mike sound just about right on. I suppose the most interesting part of this entire thing is that the cops are making themselves look worse each time they post.

By harold

July 9, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

the problem in Atlanta is the police are trying to hide in the crowd unseen so they can sneak up and arrest people for piddly crap. only the bicycle cop had POLICE on his back, and that doesnt help anybody in FRONT of him now does it? why is that there? because the POLICE dont want their bicyclers treated the same as other bicyclers. they know traffic is out of control so they plaster POLICE on the back of the bicycle cops. the walking cops, though, are supposed to blend in rather than have visibility. herein lies the problem. when the police dont want to be recognized, they should not complain when somebody from out of town does not know their game and does not recognize them. yall police QUIT HIDING and maybe this kind of thing wont happen huh?

By harold

July 9, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

sounds like officer could have prevented all of it by simply showing his police ID. are police no longer required to identify themselves? if they have only a little badge how are you supposed to know they are not Allied Barton Security? Police have police ID. The cop could easily have displayed it but no he wanted to display his muscle and “authority” instead. He should be fired for failure to identify himself as police when asked. If you want to dress like a janitor, your ID better be ready to go when you want people to suddenly realize you are cops. but none of this would have happened if there were no cars on peachtree which is effectively a pedestrian zone. no cars on peachtree by july 4, 2012!!!

By Jenny

July 9, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

I have lived in, and still visit Great Britain on a regular basis, and I can 100% guarantee you it IS illegal to jaywalk! This professor is lying through his teeth. Regardless of what the cop did or did not do, this Brit is stupid. I do not say that lightly, as many many of my friends are Brits. He’s just an idiot.

By Jenny

July 9, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

I have lived in, and still visit Great Britain on a regular basis, and I can 100% guarantee you it IS illegal to jaywalk! This professor is lying through his teeth. Regardless of what the cop did or did not do, this Brit is stupid. I do not say that lightly, as many many of my friends are Brits. He’s just an idiot.

By RH

July 9, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

If the pedestrians do not have to stop when their cross walk sign says to stop, then as a driver why do I have to stop when my red light says stop (not worth the arguement is it?). The fact that the cop was a “jerk” is an entirely different issue, and quite frankly is an opinion. Problem1: The British guy broke the “law” when he crossed the street illegally. Anything else that took place is a different arguement. The Brit would be singing a different tune if the cop did not enforce the law that allows pedestrians to cross the street legally and just let the cars speed through the lights. He would be whining that Atlanta police do not enforce traffice laws. I guess the laws only apply to people when they protect them or are convenient to them.

By Dr. I.Q.

July 9, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

Police who see themselves as protectors and public servants are invaluable. Those with anger management and psychological issues that can only be resolved by the power of a badge and gun are the problem.

This issue could have been resolved by a police officer that did not personalize the remarks of an egomaniac and simply issued a ticket for jaywalking. Everything else was excess.

By RH

July 9, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

Well, the Brit guy broke the law that is really the only thing we can confirm. If the officer needs better training, that is for someone else to decide. If the officer needs an anger management class, that is for someone else to decide. If the officer needs a psych evaluation, that is for someone else to decide (this should have occured prior to the hire date). The 1 thing we do know from the cop and the Brit, is that the Brit was jaywalking. Whether it was due to disrespect of the law or ignorance of the law, both parties admitted to the Brit crossing the street “illegaly”. Neither ignorance or disrespect give an excuse.

By Dr. I.Q.

July 9, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this

R.H. —- What you say is absolutely true; however, the question I have, and I’m sure the police administration has, is how do you let a jaywalking incident spiral out of control?

Write a freakin’ ticket and walk away.

Also, I’m concerned that visitors to the city —- people who drop millions of dollars into the city coffers —- are referred to as goobers.

Sir, they are guests!

By RH

July 9, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

It is all about money isn’t it?

By Boots

July 9, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

R.H. —- It’s reality. And, the more guests who attend functions here and spend their money and pay sales tax —- the more they spend the less we have to pay in taxes to support basic city services.

Therefore, the police are not merely protectors, but good will ambassadors for the city.

They need to work on protecting and promoting the city as a viable place to do business and conduct meetings.

By Cassie

July 9, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

Let’s see: I speed, periodically run redlights (esp. if it’s the middle of the night and there is no one around), park illegally, ride my bike the wrong way on the street, definitely jaywalk all the time.

And ya know what? If someone pulls me over? I shut my mouth, accept my ticket and pay the fine. Grow up. Law enforcement is around to save us from ourselves. Give the guys a break, they have my respect…and the time or two I’ve needed them, they’ve been on the ball, punctual, polite and extremely helpful (id theft and stalking).

By RH

July 9, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

The 1st job Boots is to protect and to serve, not marketing.

By RH

July 9, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

and Boots, although I agree the police should be professional and courteous in performing their job duties, which is to “protect”….not promote the city; it is not the police’s job to sell the city of Atlanta. If having a good police force helps promote the city to function planners, then that is just an added benefit. 1 more problem with your arguement is that by allowing jaywalkers, the traffic problem only gets worse, which does not promote the city….BOOTSY

By Boots

July 9, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

The police in Atlanta have shot themselves in the foot so many times recently that they have no toes.

For Christ’s sake, it was jaywalking.

One of the most important qualities a police officer must possess is common sense —- and the very fact that a jaywalking incident has been allowed to be blown into a public relations nightmare shows that common sense was scarce on the night of the “Great Jaywalking Caper.”

By RH

July 9, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

I think it is everyone else who has labeled it the “Great Jaywalking Caper”, not the Atlanta police department. How many times do you see people go to jail…..when if they just would have shutup and followed the “law” the officer was enforcing (jawalking or not), there would not have been a problem. The police did not make this a big deal. If an officer tells you to stop, whether you are breaking a law or not, you are required to stop. It is that simple. If you ignore a police officers demands while breaking “any” law, you will most likely be confronted and possbily ticketed or arrested and rightfully so at that point.

By RH

July 9, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

Boots, I think you are right in the Atlanta police department has shot themselves in the foot over and over, but I cannot say I agree with your comments on the jaywalking deal. All of your points are opinionated and not based on facts, and most of your agruements could be argued from the opposite point of view. Officers are put on the streets and requested to perform specific duties while on the clock. The officer in question was probably placed directly on that street to help assist with traffic, which includes speeding, running red lights, running stop signs, accidents, jaywalking, etc. so your precious out of towners could maneuvuer through the city without being runover, shot, etc. For you to just ignore all of those things tells me you are biased in your though process with the Atlanta police department and already have it out for them.

By Boots

July 9, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

I’m not biased and I’m not anti-cop; but I am anti-over reaction.

According to the AJC article the officer was off duty and had the assistance of two other officers who arrived to subdue a 56 year old history geek.

And they tripped him and wrestled him to the ground —- a distinguished author and historian —- for JAYWALKING!

FOR JAYWALKING!! Give me a freakin’ break.

By Boots

July 9, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this

But the point is,I guess, even if he was a “goober” like me, he needed to be treated in a professional manner.

And, the response of the police should be commensurate with the crime.

By Tony

July 9, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this

No, he wasn’t taken to the ground because he was jaywalking. He was taken to the ground because he resisted the officer while being arrested. Someone is easier to control while they are on the ground than they are standing up. It’s a technique that is taught at ALL levels of law enforcement, like federal, state, local and the prison systems.

By Brian

July 10, 2007 7:20 AM | Link to this

People just don’t understand… If you do what the cop who is talking to you says, you won’t get hit, taken down, yelled at, TAZED, shot and most times arrested. I’m so tired of hearing dead criminal’s moms say “He was a good boy… they didn’t have to do that !!”

By Dr. I.Q.

July 10, 2007 8:58 AM | Link to this

The wagons are circled and the us-against-them mentality is being articulated, but in the final analysis, this situation was mishandled resulting in a disproportionate response to a “mouthy and egotistical history geek.”

By For DR IQ

July 10, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this

Dr. I.Q., I’m glad to see that you are still posting here this morning. I have a serious question that I’ve posted before for thought but apparently you didn’t read that.

You said, “Write a freakin’ ticket and walk away. “

How do you write a ticket to someone who both refuses to stop and also who refuses to provide identification? I think both are necessary elements to writing a ticket. Unless of course, as I’ve stated previously, we’ve equipped our officers with psychic powers.

The professor himself admits to three things:

If the professor would have not done any of the three, there would not have been an incident or encounter with the officer.

Contrary to what some posters and the professor say, there was no doubt the officer was a police officer. He was wearing a full traditional police uniform with a police badge and two patches on his sleeve that said “Atlanta Police Department.” It is no different than the standard uniform of police throughout the United States. In addition, the professor maintains a permanent residence here in the US. He knows what police look like here.

By Lee

July 10, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

While these four or five policemen were beating down that sickly looking professor, there were about 10-12 ILLEGAL ALIEN CRIMINALS trimming hedges about 25 feet away, laughing their a* off…..

By Greg Beaman

July 16, 2007 5:52 PM | Link to this

Mr. Rose, You demonstrate a clear love of authoritarianism. You should be ashamed of yourself. If George Washington would have stopped crossing the Delaware because a man in a red coat, which clearly marked him as a British soldier, told him to, America might not exist today. If Martin Luther King, Jr. would have stopped marching because racist police officers told him to, the civil rights movement might have died in its infancy. Police officers all over the nation abuse their power every single day to satisfy some urge to feel important. Officer Leonpacher is just another one of those cops. You do freedom an injustice by defending him.

By Chris

July 17, 2007 4:02 AM | Link to this

I’m a criminal justice major and from my dealings with cops, they are a cocky, corrupt bunch. They demand respect that they don’t deserve more than anyone else and they abuse their rights and make arrests that aren’t always justified. They drive while speaking on cellphones, they speed, they take bribes…I don’t want to be a cop. I’m near insulted when someone says when I tell them my major…so, you want to be a cop? God no I don’t want to be one. I’d probably become corrupt too. And plus, they’re really not well liked. With good reason…they can take our right away, and many only have a high school education. I see a problem here.