I spotted the Jeep Wrangler parked in the Transit Mall lot not far from where the theft took place. Near it on a cell phone was a skinny man in his late twenties. I asked for his name, and he shot back, “Why?” Adding, “Cops make me anxious.” I replied, “I’ve been a cop nearing 30 years and I’ll be honest, people and their problems make me anxious.”

Thai, the skinny man, wasn’t being a wise guy when he quipped cops made him anxious, He was merely skilled at raising defensive walls. A habit birthed from the age of 8 when he began drug use and a habit, he perfected through years of hiding from himself.

I’ve never shied away from sharing who I am with suspects. At worst it will place us on common ground and cautious interactions will take place, and at best it’ll open the door to unhindered conversations. That’s how I discovered Thai’s a longtime meth addict, a thief, and ashamed of being a failure.

Now I don’t want you to think our having anxiety in common was the catalyst to a real conversation. No, it was the willingness to share a bit of love and decency. The conscious decision to forgo condemnation, judgement, and aggressive speech to acknowledge another person’s value regardless of how they value themself. It is the art of being observant, strong and courageous, and considerate. It’s the commitment to being a thoughtful human being. A commitment many who wear the badge have made to their communities.

It’s intriguing how the cop training we receive evolves into acts of kindness, heroism, and honor. My interaction with Thai was born from an investment my first Field Training Officer made. Pouring himself into me and all that’s good about our profession. Demanding excellence no matter the circumstances. Instructing me in the ways of confrontation and teaching me how to communicate without lessening anyone’s dignity. Lessons learned and applied, as taught by NOPD’s Officer Jimmie Slack.

If you encounter a cop today, regardless of your personal feelings, are treated with dignity and respect, know this, there was an honorable FTO who influenced your contact. An outstanding man or woman cop who instructed and trained that officer. Who instructed them in the ways of honor, courage, and compassion. Our profession would be lost without them. FTO’s your impact on a career is lifelong. I pray you remember this when the shift is long, your student officer is working on your last nerve, and your considering turning in your FTO pin. Thank you for your service, and Thai thanks you too. ~ LZ, Deputy Sheriff and PeaceMaker.