Being a police officer today has become increasingly challenging. How does law enforcement ‘keep the peace’ in today’s culture, with its increasing focus on the rights of the individual?
We talk about the Night to Unite movement, expectations of our police forces, how neighbors can build stronger communities, crime-prevention tips, racial tension, and more with law enforcement veteran and Ramsey County Sheriff Matt Bostrom.
What is the difference between a sheriff’s responsibilities and those of members of the police department? Sheriff Bostrom explains that the variance lies in the area for which these officers are responsible.
We talk specifically about the daily challenges of police work. Officers want to get to know the community and build relationships, but it’s difficult because they don’t have a great deal of time between responding to calls. The department is strategizing ways to maximize the time they do have.
The sheriff offers some advice on growing safer communities – including encouragement to get to know your neighbors intentionally. Don’t be over the top, but be invested. Developing those relationships will allow you to know what’s going on around you, and also to recognize when something is wrong.
If you’re confronting a situation and not sure whether to call 911, Sheriff Bostrom recommends that you call. Many people worry about wasting the officers’ time or overriding the system, but they are there to help. If you feel something isn’t right, you should call law enforcement.
We look at the widespread discussions on the use of police body cameras and police cruiser dash cameras. Does Sheriff Bostrom believe that footage from those devices should be made public by default? He expresses his view from the his unique angle, and with the families of victims of crime in mind.
