We're really swimming in it now.

[bigtree]

40. and so you think those experiences shape perceptions and attitudes about this incident and response?

I can see that.

Thing is, there is a basic thread that runs through our system of justice which allows our citizens to be regarded as responsible and legitimate, until proven otherwise. I think that most law enforcement takes care to make certain that their authority isn't some sort of paternalistic overlord and takes pains to restrain themselves from regarding folks as potential criminals. That's the heart of this case. There's an unschooled, inexperienced, mostly unaccountable figure in Mr. Zimmerman (armed) assuming the complex task of maintaining that line between suspicion and an assumption of guilt. In my opinion, he failed that (assumed) responsibility miserably; tragically, no matter who you view as the aggressor in this incident. The folks in those neighborhoods you describe aren't automatically placed in some special category; their rights to be regarded as outside of our constitution and our civil rights -- just because they live in a high crime area. Mr. Zimmerman was in no position to make those critical judgments in his voluntary, unofficial role as community defender and enforcer. It's painfully evident.