I think it also helps that most cops outside the US don't err on the side of shooting people dead. Which is a direct result of proper gun control, Japanese cops

I think it also helps that most cops outside the US don't err on the side of shooting people dead. Which is a direct result of proper gun control, Japanese cops aren't continuously walking around in fear of their lives. FWIW, in plenty European countries, police officers are also treated amicably (and asked for directions, etc, much like in Japan) but there's also no 99% conviction rate. I think Japanese cops are treated with trust despite the scary conviction rate, not because of it. If I were a cop in the US, I'd also be an aggressive dick. I'd rather rough innocent people up a bit too often than get shot because I was too easy going. It must be one of the scariest jobs in the world.