Public Perception of Police Misconduct
The public and police have always had an uneasy relationship within the United States, but this is most evident when considering racial minorities. The ‘third degree' interrogation methods in widespread use at the beginning of the 20th century disproportionately victimized the poor, young, and minorities. Close to 135 victims of the Chicago Police Torture ring, which existed between 1972 and 1991, were African Americans. However, the emergence of citizen journalists armed with video-capable cell phones, voice recorders, and cameras, are fighting back. This essay examines the divisions along racial and generational lines concerning police misconduct.