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LEO deaths
A perspective from an FOG policeman...
I started with L.A.P.D. in 1969 and am still an officer (Northwest 30+ years).
In the 60's and 70's we were targeted by militant groups for assassination (Weather Underground, Panthers, Nation of Islam, etc).
In the 80's, drugs funded more and better weaponry for the gangs against us.
What appears to be occurring now is not a "war", but random, violent (and frequent) encounters with the police. Often, the crooks are carrying to protect themselves from competing crooks, or to assault/rob a victim. "Suicide by Cop" is another dynamic that has forced us into unwanted gunfights. It was almost unheard of when I started.
The fact is undeniable we are dealing with more mentally disturbed people now.
Fortunately, police are better trained and equipped today. Patrol rifles, body armor and semi pistols are the norm. Police work still attracts combat vets who will always bring experience to a gunfight.
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We few, we happy few, we band of brothers; for he today that sheds his blood with me shall be my brother...Henry V
De Oppresso Liber
Who dares wins
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