Officer Freeman Speaks with Tuscarora Students

Officer Freeman Speaks with Tuscarora Students

Caitlin Pickens, Writer

 

Police Brutality has been a prominent issue in the United States since the early 1960’s. Controversies have played out publicly with both Officers and Victims often being portrayed with a bias for one side over another. While the mission statement for police officers is to protect and serve, many communities in our country view police officers with distrust. In an effort to educate and perhaps even to bridge understandings, Mr. Thompson invited our school resource officer (SRO) Officer Freeman to speak with his classes for a question and answer session.

One of the first questions asked by some of the students was what Officer Freeman’s view on police brutality was. Freeman responded by addressing how uncalled for police brutality truly is and in his 24 years on the force, he can say he hasn’t had to witness this. There have been complaints of police brutality but after investigation those complaints were found to be not true. Freeman addressed social media’s role in the generalization of cops. He discussed how there are tons of stories about what cops do negatively but not enough of what they do positively. Yes bad stuff happens but so does good stuff. Sadly he had to leave mid-discussion to handle a matter but that’s “what he does”.

Before answering the call of duty, Officer Freeman offered up some parting thoughts. Officer Freeman said that doesn’t want a pat on the back. He just wants to make a difference in student’s lives. He isn’t here to ‘get you’ but instead he’s here to be a positive role model for students. He’s got your back as long as you do what you supposed to. He wants you to also know as long as he is here , the use of force will never happen.