Out of Control or In Command?

Is this cop taking charge of a bad situation, having a bad day, or out of line?



It's easy to sit back and judge the officer's actions and be critical of the way he handles these kids after the fact.  But is his tone of voice, demeanor, and hands-on approach appropriate under the circumstances depicted in the video?  I don't think so.  Sure the kids were probably mouthing off to the cop and I'm pretty sure this wasn't the first time the police have spoken to these kids but none of that is reason enough for an officer to not act as a professional. 

During my freshman and sophomore years of high school I was in the JROTC program.  I tried acting just like the cop in this video and I got zero results.  Thankfully, my First Sergeant came over and explained why they weren't doing as I ordered.  He told me that to get respect one must command respect.  He explained that this is accomplished through actions and leading by example, not yelling and belligerence.  He was right.  As a young 14-year old, I appreciated his mentoring and the respect he showed me.  Thanks Tops!

Lastly, did you notice right at the end when the officer asks about the video camera?  He says something like "I better not see my self on..."  Here you go Officer Salvatore Rivieri!