laf7773,
Beautifully stated.
I believe that sop feels that the public can generally police itself and should be free to do so without law enforcement keeping order. This is a popular belief held by those who don't understand the rationality of what law enforcement sometimes is compelled to do.
The criminal justice system has the added burden of attempting to enlighten the public as to what they can do, must do and what the consequences are for everyone if they violate the oath they follow, and the risks involved even if they do their jobs. It is a complex issue that depends largely upon your point of reference.
BTW: Officers were cleared of any wrong doing by both the State Attorneys Office and the Sheriff's Office Internal Review in this case.
http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2007/nov/20/state_attorneys_office_wont_pursue_deputy_involved/