I watched a show on LA gangs and there are areas where the police don't even go anymore because the gangs are packing assault rifles. If the police don't have

I watched a show on LA gangs and there are areas where the police don't even go anymore because the gangs are packing assault rifles. If the police don't have any weapons, why would they patrol ANY area that might be dangerous? Edit: I see you recognize that some should be armed. Perhaps you're right. Maybe its discretionary based on your patrol. They could deputize parking enforcement. Oh wait, that might be worse haha.