United Airlines had nothing to do with beating the poor doctor

[MADem]

59. I think it is more likely than not that if an officer is involved in an altercation

that draws extreme PUBLIC scrutiny, making it difficult for that person to do their job, that they are placed on leave. "Investigation" is a tool to create distance from the actual event.

It's not always about the "legal action." It's also about the exposure of the officer to unwanted harassment. I wouldn't be surprised if it's with the full support of the officer's union to put members on leave if they make the headlines.

Imagine the guy/guys trying to do his work and being hounded by reporters--it's a nonstarter. Leave is the way to go. They do it every time an officer is involved in a shooting, too. In this case, the officers' behinds (if not their faces, so much) have been broadcast round the world. Someone surely has their names. There needs to be some space between this event and the officers' return to work.

I'd bet that--at worst--the officers will be "counseled" or "advised" or "instructed." The truth is, the instruction will probably be on the lines of "If you're in a place where there are lots of cellphone cameras, be sure to bellow 'Please stop resisting, sir--I don't want to have to use force to restrain you' early and often."

I know that sounds like I'm tolerant of their behavior, though I'm not. I've just seen this kind of thing before. The aviation cops aren't going to sacrifice THEIR guy(s) on the altar of UNITED's dumb call--count on it.