As I drove home from our Criminal Justice Training Commission in Burien last week after a Basic Training Task Force meeting, I swung over to Highway 99 in order to pick up some equipment items from a police supplier. It was the usual stop and go traffic.

My “cop radar” went off as I noticed the many pedestrians along the sidewalks and bus stops. I know it’s way too easy to profile others, and them profile you right back. This was different, more a look in the eyes than anything else. It said, “predator.” It’s difficult to describe. Some of it was dress, some body language, some attitude. I was driving my unmarked police vehicle, in uniform. Most didn’t notice as I drove by, but some heads turned, eyes shifted as I was made. I felt like a target. Two young teenagers slouched across a crosswalk right in front of me. They should have been in school doing something positive, but there they were, looking for prey. I was close enough to make eye contact. A smile was returned with a zombie stare and a sneer. A sad feeling crept in.

Our profession has never been more challenging. There are elements in society who have seemingly declared war on us and you. Anarchy. It’s a way different feeling today than 32 years ago when I started in this profession. We have to step back from today’s us vs. them feelings generated by perceived threats on both sides.

A great advantage that our local officers enjoy is that, for the most part, we know the players. We can be, and are, a recognized part of the community both on and off duty. The chance to be involved in other positive non-law enforcement activities, to meet and get to know people while you don’t have your badge on, is immeasurably important. Prevention and intervention are pathways that can divert young people from the criminal justice system. I’m a wholehearted supporter of both, most of all informed, supportive families and groups like WellSpring, sports boosters, after school activities, youth groups, and the many volunteers who work hard to provide healthy activities to keep our kids focused and busy.

Unfortunately, not all will listen. Our role is the last line of defense for our communities. Here’s where the double edge of the sword comes in, that officers typically know the people they’re dealing with, both as victims and suspects. Maintaining professionalism is essential in our line of work and familiarity can make that more difficult. We cannot afford to make the mistake of assuming anything. Our officers are all human with all the encompassing emotions included. In order to fairly and safely enforce the law they must transcend the urge to help immediately, save at all costs, and instead follow their training and public service mission. Tough love for lack of a fancier term. Remain a part of your community but hold fast to a bright line of safety and lawfulness for the good of all. Make the hard decisions, but always make them for the right reasons.

We all need to be vigilant and engaged. As your sheriff I’m going to put public safety first in the decisions I make. Local law enforcement is the backbone of our criminal justice system and deserves to be our top priority.