It has been some time since my last post. I have wanted to write something for a while, but really couldn’t get into one certain topic. So I waited.
On Saturday I had the opportunity, through the Leadership Academy, to participate in a ride along program with the Canton Police Department. I jumped at the chance to receive REAL TIME knowledge of what it is like for today’s local police officer in our community.
I had my uncertainties as to what I was getting myself into. While sipping coffee and discussing my thoughts with the Mrs., we arranged a broad spectrum of concepts that even included that maybe this ride along could be just PR-BS.
I kissed the Mrs. goodbye, received some last minute advice and started for downtown.
I arrived for the 10pm shift, early as usual, signed my waiver and sat waiting for the Officers’ briefings to conclude.
Looking around the room there were a mixture of interests to view. In front of me was the collection and information window. Next door to it, a listing of infractions, their correlated prices and cash only in bold; on the opposite side, the pictures of fallen comrades with small excerpters of their passing. A cemetery rub of their names was under each picture. I questioned to myself, why would someone want to take on such a choice of a career? I also questioned why I was there.
The Officer came out through an oak door and asked if I was Mr. McCartney. I nodded and he and I made our informal introductions while walking to the cruiser to start our night.
A few of my notions were quickly stamped out when our shift got underway. We drove through areas that had seemed to be forgotten. There were many homes that have been boarded up, neighborhood plight as well as a few areas known for promiscuous occurrences. You read or hear rumors about things but when you see it, speculations do change.
While checking a questionable vehicle, the patrol car’s radio announced an attempted suicide. We took off with lighting speed, our lights and sirens going. Cautiously, we crossed intersections, the Officer’s relaxed disposition from earlier was replaced with concern and deep concentration.
We arrived at the home and I was told to sit tight and wait while the Officer and colleagues jumped into action. The car doors clicked locked three times as more law enforcement and paramedics arrived. A few of the Officers carefully and calmly spoke through the houses exterior with the individual who wanted to opt out. The instinct of prayer crossed and I asked for the safety of everyone. In a few minutes of this surreal moment, a gentleman came out, appearing disoriented. The Officers took the necessary precautions as the paramedics rushed in to make sure he was okay.
The man was placed into the ambulance and taken to the hospital for observation and we returned to work. I thought to myself, this night had only just begun, as I popped a few mints.
Throughout the hours of darkness, we maneuvered in and out of the Canton area checking on alarms, a few public disturbances and routine checks. We took advantage of the slow moments to discuss topics of interest and Canton. The conversations varied and I did find out that there has not been any new cop insult or slang and not all law enforcement enjoy donuts. Sometimes you just have to ask but there is that old saying of curiosity and a cat. Luckily for me, the Officer was a good sport, otherwise the wife would have been correct and may have picked me up from County. One of her last advices, before I left, “Keep yourself out of the back seat.”
As we continued our shift and during one of our discussions, the radio interrupts; “Shots fired, Shots fired!” My head raced to belief. I looked over and the Officers game face was on and we raced from our location to the scene with warp like speed, taking every necessary caution while in transit.
The parking lot was jammed with cars wanting and waiting to leave. The Officer told me that it would be better for me to stay as the echo of the locks clicked during his rush to join the rest of the patrol. I was still trying to focus on what was going on while I drew out my tin of mints. I couldn’t see anything but the continuation of cars leaving till only a few were left. In a few minutes, the Officer returned to the vehicle and we went back to work leaving the others to complete the tasks at hand. In a mild tone I asked, “Is this a normal night?” His reply, “Sometimes, tonight’s slow.”
Thinking now, I wonder what my face looked like as my jaw dropped.
To Be Cont.
*Please note: June 7, 2009... I wish I could continue this section of the story but do to some events during the rest of the ride along, I am unable to write.
I do appreciate the time that the Leadership Academy and the Canton Police Department has provided for me. Thank you for your candor officer Sunbury. It was a pleasure to meet you and the others on the force. To be a witness to your life, of the everyday drama you experience will always be remembered.
It pushes me to work harder for our City and community.
If you ever find yourself looking for a gift for the CCP, buy some hand sanitizer. I am sure it will be appreciated.
