These type of police power abuse stories are depressing to read. It seems the whole legal system is designed to protect and perpetuate itself, with justice itse

These type of police power abuse stories are depressing to read. It seems the whole legal system is designed to protect and perpetuate itself, with justice itself being a mere side-effect. It's hard not to be pessimistic, especially after having read Balko's (the article author's) book _Rise of the Warrior Cop_. Much of the problem stems from our hysterical over-reaction to the crime spikes of the 60's and 70's, where the citizenry clamored for and were provided with draconian laws and tactics. Combine this with an almost blind deference to police authority (both as a matter of law and public opinion) and the environment is ripe for abuses of power. That being said, this particular case did result in some small legislation to help correct the problems of police overreach. Which is small nudge in the right direction, away from the fear-driven policies of the past. But I'm still afraid - that the situation will get much worse, and the abuses even more egregious, before any substantial reform is enacted.