Department of Justice

1. Unfortunately, there are still incidents of biased based policing occurring across the country. As much of a national topic this has become over the years, and many departments have been sued by the Department of Justice for condoning it, it remains. An example of this was recently discussed in New Jersey by the Attorney General. In determining that there were incidents of biased based policing “in NJ, the State Police from 1999 to 2009, and more recently the Newark Police Department, which entered into an oversight agreement with the Department of Justice last year” (Sullivan, 2016).  These were cases involving traffic stops of black motorists, as compared to white motorists, under the guise of drug interdiction.
2. Yes, I believe we control our actions and should be held accountable for them. Deciding to do something, believing it to be right or wrong, is a choice, and having an independent authority to judge those decisions, if needed, is paramount to our rights. Being judged based on the law, as compared to public opinion, elicits a sense of justice within the judicial system.  In the scripture, there was a division among followers, not allowing a decisive confirmation of justice.
3. As much as I would like to answer with a resounding YES, I honestly cannot fully say I do. I have my beliefs which I do my best to follow. I have an open mind, and listen not only to my beliefs, but I also listen to others and try to understand theirs, and not judge those who I do not share the same sentiments. I realize I am accountable to Him for my beliefs and actions, and am comfortable in the way I am living my life. I do try to apply this to my profession, treating everyone as an equal and not being judgmental, as it is not my position to do so.
4. Without hesitation, I would order the downing of the airliner to prevent the death of the larger number of persons attending the game. I do not lessen the value of life of those on the airliner, but as stated, for the greater good, it leaves one with little choice. Romans 12:1 states “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service” (KJV). We saw during the attacks on 9/11 that the outcome can be tragic, but also the outcome can be minimized as were the results of Flight 93, where the passengers took control of their destiny and prevented a larger catastrophe. They knew they were sacrificing themselves for the greater good, and I believe any person with a Biblical sense would do the same, knowing that Heaven awaits them. It is an unfortunate decision one would have to make, but the same goes for a normal citizen if there comes a time where they may have the decision of taking a life to protect themselves or another. I pray every day that when I go to work, I will not have to make that life or death decision, but I have mentally prepared myself to do just that if needed.

Reference

Sullivan, S.P., N.J. attorney general orders statewide police training on racial bias, deadly force, 20

N.J. attorney general orders statewide police training on racial bias, deadly force | NJ.com