I heard about the incident this morning ...this was definitely an egregious example of tunnel vision, without regard to the immediate emergency.
This brings to mind the somewhat typical situation where a couple, while driving their family car, exceeding the speed limit, running stop signs and red lights, is stopped by a Police officer. When the officer pulls the couple’s car over and asks the proverbial question, "where's the fire (meaning where's the emergency)” the driver explains that his wife is ready to have their baby and he is trying to get to the hospital. Once the officer learns the immediate situation, he immediately offers his service as a police escort, clearing traffic and obtaining the eternal gratitude of the couple.
Don't get me wrong, I realize this is a slightly different situation ...indeed, in this case, Moats was probably intimidating because of the situation; his voice was probably loud and demanding (after all, who would calmly express the ordeal at hand in a calm orderly fashion - well, Moats probably didn't).
Since Moats was already at the hospital, it would seem as though his story would have been credible, or at least verifiable. Hell, even running a red light here in the Maryland, Virginia and Washington DC metropolitan area constitutes a picture identifying your License plate, your cars location in the middle of the road with a caption of the red light depicted on the side. You get the notice, pay the fine and that's that (also I've Heard...).
Here's the bottom line in my view, the police department in this situation; and perhaps in other surrounding areas probably need additional training in this area. On one hand we want police officers to be nice, compassionate and understanding representatives to the public.we also know that usually, we get hardened, tough butt-kicking pit bulls who deal with criminal elements. Let's face it; the namby-pamby officer is less likely to take down the hardened criminal resisting arrest or in the commission of carrying out a criminal act.
These are just a few thoughts that go into this situation. Listen, it could have gone from bad to worse if Moats decided that nothing was going to stop him from being with the one person that could NEVER be replaced! I'm actually applauding Moats for staying with the office in spite of the situation ...he cooperated with the law!
Phoenix Talon
