State Lawmakers Hold Hearing On Police Militarization
Federal government programs send more than a billion dollars a year in military equipment and grants to police departments across the country. Critics say this has turned some departments in paramilitary forces.
Police say without it, they’ll be outgunned.
"The line between our U.S. military and civilian police is blurring significantly," said Dr. Peter Kraska, an EKU Professor and police expert.
Kraska told the committee this is happening, because some police have been misusing the gear and weaponry they’ve received from the military.
Kraska warned lawmakers about the unintended consequences of a SWAT team deployed to a neighborhood for something that is not an emergency.
"Immediately, it’s those cops against us; and for the cops, it’s us against them," said Kraska.
Jeffersontown Police Chief Rick Sanders told the committee police need to keep up with the bad guys.
"We’re no longer dealing with sling shots and fishing sinkers. We’re dealing with automatic weapons," said Sanders.
Kraska said he doesn’t see police militarization happening in Kentucky, but he says the risk remains.
"The question is a matter from a public policy standpoint, what is a wise expenditure of money a $300,000 BearCar, or more officers," asked Kraska.
Sanders said police almost always do the right thing.
"Let’s tweak it where it needs to be tweaked. Let’s make it right. More importantly, let’s have leaders out there leading police departments. Let’s have proper training, and most importantly let’s hold officers accountable," said Sanders.
The Committee Chair said they’ll continue to follow this issue.
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