Dealing with the Police in the USA: A Personal Reflection

The frequency of police interactions in the USA varies greatly based on an individual's circumstances and life stage. My personal experiences highlight the differences and complexities of these encounters.

How Often Do You Deal with the Police in the USA?

My experiences with the police span several decades and reveal a diverse range of scenarios. Currently, I haven't had any direct interactions with law enforcement for three years. During that time, I have only spoken to two officers socially.

However, my experiences in the past are quite different. Five years ago, I was dealing with the police monthly. My life was marred by an abusive relationship. My abusive partner and her brother would call the police at least once a month in an attempt to portray me as the abuser. Fortunately, my situation took a turn when I removed the closet door from the inside, and a video my roommate took revealed my partner as the real perpetrator.

Seven years ago, my interactions with the police were much more frequent and varied. At that time, I was a security guard. During my night rounds, I frequently visited a local gas station, where I interacted with police officers socially. I also worked in a high-crime area, necessitating frequent calls for backup. Crazy things happen at three in the morning in cities. For example, I once assisted an officer in response to a shooting. Another time, I helped apprehend a drunk driver who accidentally drove into my building. I also helped tripped a suspect attempting to flee from the police, and detained thiefs before handing them over to the authorities. These were the most common interactions I had with the police.

In my childhood, I had multiple encounters with the police. As we later discovered, my behavior was rooted in kleptomania, a condition I was unaware of and had no way to address at the time. I would steal almost daily as a child. Despite this problematic behavior, I wasn't mistreated by the police; they were simply doing their job. As an adult, I have managed my issues like any other addiction, with the understanding that past actions are not indicative of current character.

There have been some bad interactions, but overall, the experiences have been positive. Only one bad interaction occurred over the years. A few months ago, while walking on the street, I was stopped and tackled by a police officer, who claimed to see me reaching for a gun. However, I was merely tying my shoe and wearing wireless headphones. The officer got increasingly frustrated and angry, but fortunately, a sergeant arrived and intervened, releasing me after a conversation. In Utah, where I live, nothing I had done was illegal, and I even don't need a permit to conceal a gun.

In conclusion, the frequency and nature of police encounters can vary widely depending on personal circumstances. Understanding and managing difficult situations can help to ensure that interactions with law enforcement are as positive and productive as possible.