by smurfman on Mon Oct 21, 2019 6:46 pm
Actually, it is most officers never fire their guns in the line of duty. A firearm is regularly drawn for clearing buildings, high risk stops, shots fired/man with gun, arrests for certain types of warrants, and many similar circumstances. I know one officer that went his career without a fight of any sort but he had unholstered his sidearm or pulled a long gun many times. Having a firearm in hand, even if not actually pointing it at a suspect, has stopped a lot of problems from escalating.
I spent a brief period of my life as a police officer. I have been in a similar position myself. The advantage I had was the residence was one I knew the occupant very well and was able to recognize him in the dim light. He also stopped instantly and did not make any sudden moves when I first saw and challenged him. Someone I didn't know and spun quickly toward me when told to stop may have had a different result.
I reserved judgement at first though the news report looked bad for the officer. That charges were brought, it appears the officer may have reacted poorly. I read the original story but not the follow ups so do not know what exact charges were brought more what they actually mean. The statutory definition of these charges may correspond with manslaughter or something else in Minnesota. That would seem more appropriate on the surface.