I think the real problem behind this is quite simple - studies have shown what we probably know from personal experience, that when you wear a "mask" - whether one of anonymity, or a "Robo Cop"-like getup, it makes you behave more aggressively.
The reasons behind why every PD has all of this paramilitary gear is well-studied but best left for another thread; the fact is they have it, and when they wear it they are more likely to behave like any other human being who finds himself suddenly hiding behind full body armor.
It's not the police that's the problem, it's the gear, and departments who ignore the mental impact of having it & don't adjust their training to match.
The reasons behind why every PD has all of this paramilitary gear is well-studied but best left for another thread; the fact is they have it, and when they wear it they are more likely to behave like any other human being who finds himself suddenly hiding behind full body armor.
It's not the police that's the problem, it's the gear, and departments who ignore the mental impact of having it & don't adjust their training to match.