Where are those supposed "good cops?" Because you certainly don't hear about any of them at any level proactively speaking out against the actions of the bad cops (or the more or less normal cops). The only time they speak out is when they get caught doing something wrong.
A lot of this crap with hiring of roid heads and control freaks starts at the top with mayors, city councilmen/managers.
I just moved to a little conservative town and the cops here want to be involved and get to know you, but in a very passive way. Nothing but good conversations at the store and gas pumps so far. They all seem to have a sense of humor and I think they really love their jobs here (we have next to no crime other than speeding). They stay out of my business, I am still getting used to that. It’s almost surreal.
Its cultural. Read up on the blue code of silence.
I stumbled upon a phenomenon called “First Amendment Audits” on u-toob recently and have become almost addicted to watching them.
The premise is simple: a guy with a camera recording the activities of public officials (predominantly cops) in the commission of their duties.
The main takeaway: Cops don’t like to be photographed, especially when they’re misbehaving. And they misbehave a lot!
I don’t agree with some of the tactics of some of the auditors - some seem intent upon agitating for effect or intimidating beleaguered low-level bureaucrats. But the main emphasis is on the heavy-handed approach to policing by increasingly militarized and weaponized thugs who would be right at home in a totalitarian regime.
It’d not a regional thing. You can find auditors in every state. Out of curiosity I searched and found an audit of the police department in my little burg. The attitudes shown by the local cops was disconcerting to say the least!