I don't mean to beat up on the NYPD (actually I do), but this story in the NY Post bugs me--not because PBA cards are being sold on eBay, but because PBA cards exist in the first place. Why should friends and families of policemen receive what amounts to a social courtesy not given to those without this card? Shouldn't all law-abiding, tax-paying citizens be considered "friends of the force" and therefore be given the same "breaks" as those with this card get?
These cards basically say: "Hey, I know I broke a law, but I'm one of you --see-- so how about you fill your quota on some other poor sap without this luxury." OK, I get it. Have card, can break rules.
Quote:
"Having the card marks you as a friend to the force, and can be used to get out of minor jams. Flash the union card to an officer who has stopped you for speeding or is citing you for illegally parking, and the cop will forgo the ticket and let you off with a warning and wink. Police unions long encouraged their members to honor the cards when presented at a car stop -- especially since they are often carried by cops' relatives."
Read the rest here
It seems to me that these "get out of jail free" cards also represent the sense of elitism that has perpetuated the untouchable attitude so many officers are infected with. Why not give teachers and their families "get out of jail free" cards?
The traffic stop should go like this: "My mom is a teacher, officer. She's making sure your children don't grow up to be a pain in the ass for you and your force, so how about you let me slide for pulling an illegal U-turn with no one around for miles while I'm lost." But no. If you don't know a cop who is kind enough to bestow onto you this cop-be-nice card, follow the rules buddy, because you are no friend to them.
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