The public’s view of law enforcement has been greatly affected by  trends in crime and negative media attention. This has resulted in an alarming amount of judgement and criticism on how police officers do their job and the public’s lack of trust in law enforcement. Change must come from both law enforcement and the public if we are to resolve this complex issue.

Positive Police News collects positive news stories about cops displaying kindness as a reminder of the good law enforcement provides.

To support the men and women in blue, check out the heartwarming stories below. You can also listen by clicking on the podcast.

Police Inspires Change

In Newport, Virginia, Jessica McGlone’s video of police officer Zachary Lyons playing with her children went viral with over 130,000 online views.

McGlone explained her motivation for the video as she filmed her children laughing and playing with Officer Lyons as a, “moment they will never forget. We’ve seen so much negativity this past year and just to see something positive and a change, that’s why I wanted to record it. It was just so beautiful to see.”

Officer Lyons is determined to take action and build relationships with the community, “all you can do is stay positive and hopefully one day, maybe we can mend the relationship” by, “building trust one child at a time.”

This uplifting video shows Officer Lyon being a role model to children in his community.

London Introduces Body-Cameras

Boris Johnson, London’s mayor, announced that 20,000 London police officers will be equipped with body cameras after a successful testing phase.

Johnson describes body-worn cameras as, “exciting technology that will build trust, help the police do their jobs, and allow the public to hold officers more accountable.”Johnson is confident that body-worn cameras will help shorten the justice process by reducing complaints and increasing the number of early guilty pleas.

Johnson also claims that introducing this technology, “will also improve public scrutiny of how we [police officers] carry out our role.” We are very excited about London’s plans to integrate body-worn cameras into their police force. For more information on the different types of body-worn cameras visit our website at www.safetyinnovations.com

Humble Heroes

Two months ago, Officer Kerry Reynolds and Officer James Vinson won the bravery award after rescuing a troubled teenager from an 80 ft. rooftop.

On their way back from a previous call, Officers Reynolds and Vinson decided to investigate after they heard someone screaming. At the scene they found a distressed girl on a rooftop who was in danger of jumping, and a concerned neighbor.

Being a time sensitive situation, both officers reacted quickly and strategically to ensure the girl and neighbor got to safety. Using aerial cables to maintain their balance, the officers bravely climbed up to the rooftop and secured the resisting girl. Officers Reynolds and Vinson fearlessly maneuvered across the rooftop to safety through an open window of the apartment building.

Officer Reynolds told Police Oracle, “You know what, I’m no hero. We just wanted to save their lives really. The adrenaline was pumping so much that you just focus. I guarantee anyone else would do the same.” Both officers displayed selflessness and humility that I find honorable and deserving of recognition.

Committed To You

On Thursday, June 5th, 2015, Governor Mary Fallin signed into law a new legislation in Oklahoma City that governs the public release of video captured by law enforcement officers’ body-worn cameras. This is the first step showing police agencies commitment to working with the public.

As with anything new technology, discussions and policies are needed for successful implementation. Fallin told The Associated Press that, “the law strikes a balance between transparency and privacy concerns.”

Its important to foster the police-public relationship and it begins by discussing issues regarding body-worn cameras. We need to start educating the public about this new technology, the future implications, and developing video evidence management storage policies. It is refreshing and uplifting to hear about law enforcement’s’ unwavering dedication to serve and protect their communities.

For more positive stories about cop kindness subscribe now or visit our website at www.safetyinnovations.com.

(Story Sources: Police Inspires Change, London Body Cameras, Humble Heroes, Committed To You)

(Photo Credit: “Jumper (suicide) in Dallas” by Dieselgeek, Flickr via North Charleston, Lee Coursey)