Dallas shooting rocks nation’s police forces
The flags at the courthouse flew at half-staff after the police shootings in Dallas. (Bruce Branum | The Standard)
TORI J. NORRIS | The Greenville Standard
Thursday was one day that will go in history, and not for a good reason.
A peaceful protest in Dallas quickly turned deadly when a single gunman, who was later identified and killed by law enforcement, turned it into the deadliest attack on police officers since 9/11. Protesters were showing their frustration of the many recent killings of black men by police.
With the deaths of five officers, and seven other officers and two civilians being wounded, many people are worried about what the effects will be on the rest of the country.
Since the shooting at the protest march, there have been attacks on cops in at least three other states.
Sheriff Kenny Harden said Thursday was a sad day for law enforcement.
“I am really not sure what to say,” said Sheriff Harden. “We just need to pull together, law enforcement and community, and figure out a way to put a stop to it.”
Currently, deputies of the Butler County Sheriff’s Department wear body cameras.
“We are also upgrading our car cameras as well,” said Sheriff Harden. “With Butler County being near the interstate, we come in contact with all kinds of people. We just have to stay on top of things and be careful as well as use good common sense.”
U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-Ala.) released a statement Friday following the shootings. “I’m horrified by the massacre in Dallas. The deliberate, premeditated targeting of police officers is a despicable, unconscionable act that simply should not happen in America.”
She also shared her grief with the Dallas community and the families of those who have fallen and those who were killed by law enforcement.
“No one wants to stop these terrible incidents and restore all Americans’ confidence in the police more than the good men and women of the law enforcement community themselves. Right now they need our support and appreciation for putting their lives on the line to keep our communities safe.”
