[mmichaels1970]

Commission of a crime is not probable cause?

As I have said, I do not really blame the police. I blame the state that created the market for loose cigarettes by there method of prohibition by excessive taxation.

The reality: a 350lb, 40+ year old man does not stand outside in the heat for hours in the middle of sidewalk just to sell loose cigarettes.

That's conjecture. I see people standing out on the corners of Cleveland, Akron, and suburban freeway exit ramps in 80+ degree heat with signs begging for loose change. I can absolutely see the same type of person out picking up a buck or two per cigarette.

He is there as a lookout for people who are selling things that are stronger.

That's also conjecture.

I believe New York is #1 in the country for the sale of black-market cigarettes. I think LA is #2. I saw a report that 60% of cigarettes smoked in NYC are bought off of the black market. To me, it is very possible he was simply out hustling a few bucks by selling cigarettes.

[wideawake]

I blame the state that created the market for loose cigarettes by there method of prohibition by excessive taxation.

That's good analysis.

I see people standing out on the corners of Cleveland, Akron, and suburban freeway exit ramps in 80+ degree heat with signs begging for loose change.

Good point.

But gangs do not rely on standard issue bums as lookouts because they are unpredictable and inattentive.

Garner was wearing recent vintage high end sneakers, was clean and presentable, and lived in a nearby house.

I believe New York is #1 in the country for the sale of black-market cigarettes.

Oh, I think you're right on the money there.

To me, it is very possible he was simply out hustling a few bucks by selling cigarettes.

I think he was doing both: if I am getting paid to wait around as a diversion to police, I might as well collect some extra cash on the side from a business that can never get me for more than a misdemeanor.