To the editor:

It is time to impose a code of conduct when one is stopped by the police. At present many people are not sure of what the proper protocol or demeanor exhibited should be in place. This code of conduct would then protect both the police officers and the individual in question because the rules would be spelled out. It is never proper to defy a police officer’s lawful command. If one has a question as to whether or not it is a lawful command one could take the badge number and inform the officer’s supervisor or department. If this code was coupled with body cameras on the officers, there would be little room for ambiguity.

Such a code might consist of the citizen being stopped or questioned to assume a non-threatening body position, such as hands in view and at the sides. They would be required to remain silent until the reason for the stop was explained by the officer. All the while the entire incident would be on tape.

Consequences for failure to follow the code as per the law would result in a first class misdemeanor. If the officer is attacked in any physical manner the minimum charge would be a second class felony unless bodily harm was done to the officer. Other more serious consequences would then come into play.

At the present there is a major of the minority community that has failed to be more vocal in condemning the riots in Ferguson. They essentially have remained silent. Even silence sends a message. To quote Sir Thomas More, The maxim is Qui tacet consentiret: the maxim of the law is “Silence gives consent.”

I am sure that their silence may be out of fear of reprisal. That as well needs to be addressed.

But no dialogue takes place. The conversation is one-sided. The non-helpful name calling prevents both sides from open discussion. The minorities at the moment control the dialogue. Why? If the mainstream within the minority community is serious about seeking a real solution rather than appeasing their base then they should demand open and free dialogue. Things need to be said. Wrongful behavior needs to be identified and solutions need to be formulated.

The question is raised, “Why are there not more minority police officers?” First, few minorities even apply because many of them are viewed as “sellouts” within their communities. Second, many cannot pass a background or credit check and this is true of all applicants. And third, others are not successful with the entrance exams. Although the entrance requirements differ from state to state and between the states and federal law enforcement systems they seek to employ, train, and utilize competent and worthy officers.

But the problem does exist. There is a fair amount of mistrust and misconceptions between the races here in play but useful dialogue is shunned. None of this is likely to happen. I harbor no such dream. I will most likely be labelled a “racist,” yet nothing I offer is racial.

I am a realist.

Joseph L. Kibitlewski

Cape Coral