The Blade couldn’t do that. I’d seen him have difficulty sometimes remembering what and where he was carrying things. He had so many different leather goods that hardly any of it was broken in, and it caused him to struggle getting it out. Often times on patrol when he should have been eyeballing the street, he’d be sitting in the passenger seat playing with or explaining something about his new gear. And even though years ago we only had a fraction of the technology that exists today, his inattention to the job by focusing on some gadget could have meant disaster for him or one of his partners.

I’m no luddite; I recognize new technology, e.g., computer terminals, fingerprint readers, etc., enhance our ability to catch bad guys. My only complaint is the technology is so ubiquitous that our attention to the street has diminished. We eyeball our computer screen, send texts, talk on the cell and run tags, all of which means we pass by places and people without even seeing them.

The gear we carry has increased to the point where moving around and putting our hands on somebody is an effort in and of itself. Chasing an offender down an alley or up the stairs can be challenging even without carrying a load of gear, add the vest to the ensemble and you have an extra twenty pounds to manage.

Gear guys endear themselves to us if only because of their fascination with all things police. Whether it’s a weapon or other piece of equipment you’re interested in, chances are the gear guy has it. He becomes our own subject matter expert. I only wish those types would hone their tactics and instincts to complement their ever expanding bag of tricks.

Stay safe, Brothers and Sisters!

Web Links:

• LivSafe--Stay Aware, Stay Safe!
• Chicago Warriors Midnight Battles in the Windy City by John Wills
• Gripped By Fear by John Wills

About The Author:

John M. Wills spent 33 years in law enforcement as a Chicago Police Officer and FBI Special Agent (Ret). He is a Freelance Writer and Speaker whose third book, TARGETED, is now available online at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Contact John through his website: www.johnmwills.com.