For 50 years, we have ascribed to a style of policing that is “community-oriented” in Madison. We have cited Sir Robert Peel’s dictum that “the police are the people and the people are the police.”
But today, that principle is facing its ultimate test. In an era where masked, unaccountable federal agents descend upon our streets — outnumbering local forces and operating without local oversight or caution — silence from City Hall is not “neutrality.” Silence is an abdication of duty.
I have spent 33 years in a police uniform, 21 of them as a chief in this city. I have written policies, books and blogs. I am telling you now: There is an “elephant in our room,” and many are pretending not to see it…