Florida police officer investigated after challenging US veteran over use of disabled parking space

2015-08-13T14:07:15-04:00

[Warning: Video has explicit language!]

From: Fox News

A Florida police officer is under investigation after he allegedly ordered an Army veteran to remove his car from a handicapped-accessible parking spot despite the veteran’s vehicle displaying a disabled placard.

According to WPBF-TV, Riviera Beach Police Sgt. Gary Wilson is now on paid administrative leave while he is being investigated by internal affairs following an incident Sunday involving Isiah James, a U.S. Army combat veteran who served nearly 10 years.

The incident, caught on James’ cellphone video, shows an angry exchange between James and Wilson after the officer allegedly asked the veteran to move his Dodge Magnum out of the disabled parking spot outside a Walgreens because he did not look disabled.

Wilson is seen on the video challenging James, 29, saying the veteran is “in the wrong” because he “can walk.”

“What I’m saying is there are people in wheelchairs who can’t get out and you just get out of the car and float right into the store,” Wilson says to James.

“You are not the arbitrator of my disability; you don’t get to decide if I’m disabled or not,” says James, who reveals during the exchange that he served tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. James also explains that he has screws in his leg and suffered a traumatic brain injury.

Wilson, who asks for James’ license and calls in the plate number to check for outstanding warrants, also appears to knock James’ cellphone out of his hand as the veteran records the exchange.

“Move the camera out of my face,” Wilson says.

“You can’t do that, officer,” James says. “You broke my phone.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VkkOMMmQIg

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2015/08/12/florida-cop-investigated-after-challenging-veteran-over-use-disabled-parking/

Cop Harasses Disabled Veteran for No Reason!

Officer Wilson is going to have some explaining to do.

Response by 1stSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2015 2:15 PM

2015-08-13T14:15:57-04:00

Classic example of how not to treat a police officer. This should have been handled differently on both sides.

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Aug 13 at 2015 2:19 PM

2015-08-13T14:19:35-04:00

My buddy gets some weird looks for having disabled vet (ie handicap) plates on his Harley Street Glide.

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Aug 13 at 2015 2:24 PM

2015-08-13T14:24:20-04:00

Does he have the right to park there? Yes. Should he? Don't know him. But personally, even if I was disabled, I would still park normally if there's nothing that would inhibit me from walking further distances.

Response by SA Harold Hansmann made Aug 13 at 2015 2:36 PM

2015-08-13T14:36:04-04:00

Paul Blart, need to go back to the shopping mall!

Response by SN Greg Wright made Aug 13 at 2015 2:41 PM

2015-08-13T14:41:43-04:00

Cops don't decide who's disabled. Period. In order to get that placard, this vet (and anyone else in the country wanting one) had to get his doctor to sign off on a DMV form. If his doctor did, and the placard is legit, this cop has ZERO standing.

Response by SGT Kristin Wiley made Aug 13 at 2015 2:44 PM

2015-08-13T14:44:26-04:00

Why can't we just respect other people?

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Aug 13 at 2015 2:51 PM

2015-08-13T14:51:00-04:00

And here we go again. This situation got out of hand from the start. Does the officer have the right to tell the Veteran to move his car if the Veteran has all the right credentials to park there? Heck no. Did the Veteran act appropriately throughout the exchange? Oh no.

One thing that we as Veterans need to remember is we are living through some horrible things only because of the advancement in combat medical reaction. Medics and Corp men are able to better treat us at the point of impact. Yet, the nation, generally speaking still expects to see a "Wounded Veteran" as one that is missing body parts or strapped to a wheel chair. My heart truly goes out to my brothers and sisters that find themselves in that manner. Yet, legally, the Veteran did nothing wrong. But I do agree with the officer that the Veteran should have considered that while injuried, he is lucky enough to walk. However, he could have very limited mobility and those few short steps could have been hell to take; again we don't know his full medical history.

I still say though that both men hold some of the blame together and this could have been handled in a different manner.

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Aug 13 at 2015 2:55 PM

2015-08-13T14:55:06-04:00

The disability seems to have involved a chip on his shoulder.

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Aug 13 at 2015 3:02 PM

2015-08-13T15:02:04-04:00

I think I am going to side with many here....The cop handled it wrong from the start. This being said, I don't think that the vet handled himself as well as he could have either.... Regardless, the Law Enforcement community does not have the right or obligation to determine who parks in handicapped parking when there is a legal handicap placard or license plate identifying it as authorized. I hope that the LEO receives discipline for his action...but I also hope that the vet handles things better if it should ever happen again.

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Aug 13 at 2015 3:09 PM

2015-08-13T15:09:30-04:00

I have to wonder if FL is like LA where when you a handicap plates or hangtag you have a separate ID card that you have to carry so that if you used it and a cop question you on it, you had to produce it to prove you are the one that is actually suppose to be using.

Response by CSM Michael J. Uhlig made Aug 13 at 2015 3:10 PM

2015-08-13T15:10:49-04:00

Boils down to Officer Wilson let his personal bias interfere with his duties as a Police Officer and crossed the line of professionalism with a Disabled Veteran that was legally parked.

And.....................This Veteran is incredibly lucky having survived BEING BLOWN UP EIGHT TIMES, and still has all finger and toes......he is extremely lucky, many do not survive the first explosion. I can't help but feel he was looking for an opportunity to play the victim here.

Response by SSgt Terry P. made Aug 13 at 2015 4:09 PM

2015-08-13T16:09:15-04:00

I have disabled plates,i do not park in handicap parking spaces,but if i did the police would be wrong to tell me to move.My opinion is that both the Vet and the policeman handled the situation wrong.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2015 4:31 PM

2015-08-13T16:31:48-04:00

I have several friends that I feel abuse their disability plates. But then again, I am not there to police them - I can only offer them my opinion. The police in questions clearly feels that he has the right to question another authority's judgement - which he clearly have not. His job is to enforce the law, and since no law has been broken his job is not to harass or judge.
Neither of them handled it well, but the police should have done his job - and not whatever he was doing?!!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2015 4:33 PM

2015-08-13T16:33:39-04:00

Cop probably wanted that spot for himself to help make it easier with that giant spare tire he is hauling around.

Response by MSgt Curtis Ellis made Aug 13 at 2015 7:06 PM

2015-08-13T19:06:46-04:00

Wow... Just... Wow...

Response by Capt Mark Strobl made Aug 13 at 2015 7:18 PM

2015-08-13T19:18:05-04:00

Can only assume what had transpired up to the point the camera began recording. I don't like the disposition of either party here. While I do agree that Sgt Wilson should consider loosing a few pounds, the vet could have been substantially less combative. A no-win situation that should have been avoided.

Response by TSgt Marco McDowell made Aug 13 at 2015 7:18 PM

2015-08-13T19:18:54-04:00

Even on base I question myself when I see a guy hop out of his car while in the disabled parking and jog into the exchange. I see the placard but I have no idea as to what the disability is. I'm not sure if docs are just liberal with the application or if the guy can't carry 15 lbs for more than 10 feet. Unfortunately we live in a world of untrustworthy individuals and police have to question everything. I'm sure he saw this dude pull up in his slicked up Charger and roll out and got suspicious. Everyone that throws that "I'm a vet and saw combat or got shot, what about you" line can eat me. Professionals don't use their injuries or traumas as a crutch in society. It's like that guy trying to get a military discount at every store. Both guys handled this poorly, but the servicemember should've placed himself above the fray and been even more professional and de-escalated this. It's what we do, active, guard, reserve, separated or retired.

Response by PO1 Leo Avalos made Aug 13 at 2015 7:26 PM

2015-08-13T19:26:49-04:00

He should have a document ready to prove he is a disabled vet. VA provides a document on it's dashboard. would be nice to see the documentation in action. Good vet. Bad cop.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2015 7:39 PM

2015-08-13T19:39:06-04:00

Kudos to the vet for standing up for himself. And booooo to that officer for harassing a disabled veteran. They should use this video in police academies for how NOT to deal with disabled veterans.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2015 7:46 PM

2015-08-13T19:46:39-04:00

The police officer was wrong. The police do not decide on who is or is not handicap. The officer should be fired and charged for assault for hitting him. Yes, the veteran could have handled it a little better. HOWEVER, he was very upset over how the officer was treating him.

Response by GySgt Christopher Andrews made Aug 13 at 2015 8:03 PM

2015-08-13T20:03:25-04:00

Cop is 100% in the wrong. The cop has the right to verify his disability status/placard, but not the right to his personal opinion on who is or isn't disabled. Once everything was verified, the cop should have moved on. Once the cop tried to enforce his own personal opinion about what makes a person disabled is when the vet started to get upset. It would have made me upset too. Not to mention the cop knocked the vets phone out from his hand for no reason and cracked the screen. The vet wasn't breaking any laws by recording the incident. This is just an example of a unprofessional police officer over stepping his authority.

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Aug 13 at 2015 8:09 PM

2015-08-13T20:09:31-04:00

I carry an ID card in my wallet certifying that I am entitled to Handicap parking privileges. I keep it with my Driver's license. All the cop had to do was ask. I don't "look disabled" either, but I sure am, as are myriad veterans with spinal injuries, joint injuries, heart problems, neurological problems, etc...

Response by SGT Charlie Steward made Aug 13 at 2015 8:14 PM

2015-08-13T20:14:55-04:00

We don't know this particular Vets malady, we know that he was blown up 8 times, a miracle that he was not killed all its own, apparently, he also had the correct placard. That is enough for me. Bottom line, however, is that the Officer stepped outside of his lane, and the Vet could have acted differently to stop this argument from happening in the first place.

Response by SSgt Charles Edwards made Aug 13 at 2015 8:35 PM

2015-08-13T20:35:17-04:00

I can see both sides of the argument. My mother had a disabled placard for her car and would only park in such spaces if she was having a bad day (limited mobility requiring a cane to walk). She almost never opted to use a motorized cart found in Walmart because she always believed there was someone else who needed it more. Interestingly enough, the one time she used one when I was with her, she hit me with damn thing. But, I digress. We would joke about taking my mom out to dinner, movies and such to get the great parking. Despite knowing we were joking, she didn't seem amused that we were discussing exploiting her disability.

It's that reason there that this cop's argument has some validation. His perception is that the veteran is able to exit his vehicle and move fairly well despite having a disability. As veterans, we know there are some issues we can't see on the surface. I think this officer (or perhaps this particular area) has been dealing with non-disabled people taking advantage of those with handicap placards. It's wrong, but it happens.

I think that the veteran should have complied and dealt with the situation later at the police station. Had he been cited, he could have presented his case in court and most likely won.

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Aug 13 at 2015 8:57 PM

2015-08-13T20:57:03-04:00

BTW, not that I want to "kick a man when he's down" but looking at this officer, it is clear he is not a squared away officer...

Response by PO3 Anthony Williams made Aug 13 at 2015 9:14 PM

2015-08-13T21:14:32-04:00

So much drama why couldn't the vet just move his CAR he walks with a limp , I don't understand the yelling and disrespecting and drawing attention not professional .

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2015 9:30 PM

2015-08-13T21:30:07-04:00

Cop needs to stay on administrative a while longer and get some serious retraining on how to handle himself in a more professional manner.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2015 9:59 PM

2015-08-13T21:59:06-04:00

The fact that the officer physically assaulted the Vet for filming him violating his freedom of expression and damaging his property, is unacceptable and infuriates me. I will admit that I'm am always certainly going to side with the Vet vs. Cop, or anyone 9 times out of 10.

Response by Cpl Chad Perry made Aug 13 at 2015 10:09 PM

2015-08-13T22:09:50-04:00

Damn cop in my town did the same crap to me while I was hobbling across the parking lot on my cane. He even said I didn't look disabled and that I was walking just fine. I wanted to throw that prepubescent punk over my knee and spank the shit out of him. They don't get to decide who is disabled or not.

Response by PVT Andrew Burd made Aug 13 at 2015 10:18 PM

2015-08-13T22:18:18-04:00

what a fat fucking bastard. I wish I was there so I could stick up for the soldier.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 13 at 2015 10:18 PM

2015-08-13T22:18:38-04:00

He did not deserve that at all, and I am glad he stood up for his rights.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Aug 14 at 2015 3:35 AM

2015-08-14T03:35:52-04:00

I see a lot of people saying that the vet could have handled himself differently.

Firstly, we don't know if he was having a bad day to begin with, and Officer Dough Boy made it worse by harassing and assaulting him.

Secondly, wouldn't you get upset if a cop who is obviously out of shape tells you that "you don't look handicapped enough" and possibly lose your cool?

The cop had absolutely no authority to make that determination, and was completely unprofessional and also ASSAULTED the veteran. He should not be suspended or retrained, he should be FIRED.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 14 at 2015 3:38 AM

2015-08-14T03:38:50-04:00

If you're disabled, you get to use handicapped spots. That said, if you can walk just fine, don't be a dick. Park somewhere else and let less mobile people have the closer parking spot.

Response by SGM Steve Wettstein made Aug 14 at 2015 4:05 AM

2015-08-14T04:05:28-04:00

They both could have handled this situation better. With that said, the LEO had no reason to give Mr. James a hard time because he didn't feel that James was disabled enough to park in a disabled parking spot. I have a placard myself and I'll be damned if I would put up with someone trying to tell me I am not disabled enough to use.

Response by SGT John W Lugo made Aug 14 at 2015 5:10 AM

2015-08-14T05:10:19-04:00

Just a bit on information regarding Florida requirements for handicap parking.

Response by SPC Thomas Baldwin made Aug 14 at 2015 8:53 AM

2015-08-14T08:53:01-04:00

While I am in no way defining the officers actions, and I agree both acted outside of prudent public conduct. If we fired every person that made a incorrect statement or acted in a unprofessional mannerr to a customer, employee, citizen NO ONE would have a Job. Also Video or audio recording is not covered in the 1st amendment. And a law enforcement officer asking or telling you to be quiet is not a violation of your 1st amendment rights. The officer has the right to direct you to remain quiet wile they investigate what they believe to be a crime, whether it is or isn't. Failure to do so is obstruction of justice and now you just gave them all they need to arrest you when, up until that point you didn't do anything. I AN NOT DEFENDING THIS OFFICER"S ACTIONS Just stating the truth.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Aug 14 at 2015 10:51 AM

2015-08-14T10:51:10-04:00

I was about to turn off this video; and say to myself: I have seen Enough. (I watched the whole thing.)
This Police Officer started off by telling a disabled Veteran that he could not parking in a handicapped parking space because there were "little old ladies" that needed the space....and then, he had the audacity to tell the Veteran that he thought that he was better than other people. The Police Officer went from being an aggressor to being a victim.
THEN he called for ASAP back up; such that the Police vehicle-or some first responder's vehicle-came, with a SIREN going off. He wasted that first responder's time!
To say nothing of the fact that this Police Officer was cussing and swearing. For goodness sake, a professional never, but never, does that.
This is what I interpolated from this video. The words were spoken very rapidly.

Response by 1LT Robert Barnes made Aug 14 at 2015 10:57 AM

2015-08-14T10:57:18-04:00

I would actually like to see the police enforce the handicapped parking laws. You can go into pretty much any parking lot across america on any given day and time and find someone parked in a disabled spot who does not have the placard or plate. Chase them out and give them tickets.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 14 at 2015 12:00 PM

2015-08-14T12:00:23-04:00

It appears that the officer is being judgmental beyond his authority to do so. Also, IMO, the citizen was clearly emotional but the officer was also. As an authority figure, the officer has a professional responsibility to manage his emotions. The citizen is not obligated to be less emotional unless he is breaking a law by being out of control.
I hope to be a police officer soon and I am 100% disabled according to the VA. Just wanna put that out there.
Hopefully I can shed a different light on cops and veterans relationships.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 14 at 2015 12:35 PM

2015-08-14T12:35:04-04:00

The police officer was in the wrong but actually seemed very calm until the veteran went completely nuts. I'm definitely not defending the officer discriminating or knocking the cell phone down but the veteran in the video was inexcusably disrespectful and threatening/menacing to the officer.

I have to admit I've seen people get out of a car and walk in a store and wondered whose car they borrowed. I believe the veteran in this video but I also know friends and family of people who are disabled REGULARLY take advantage of that parking placard. I think what started the issue was the officer trying to check to see if he was disabled. The video starts after the initial exchange and at that point it seems the officer was still calm and the veteran was already not.

Response by SSgt Jack Burlingame made Aug 14 at 2015 1:00 PM

2015-08-14T13:00:28-04:00

FAT F@#K!!

Response by 1SG Juzt Xzan made Aug 14 at 2015 2:02 PM

2015-08-14T14:02:55-04:00

I have Disability plates but I dont abuse them... Sometimes I feeling bad and sometimes I'm feeling good enough to walk.. There are people way worse off than me... I've had disability plates for 3 years now.. I've parked in handicap once...

Response by SSG Keith Bodiford (Ret) made Aug 14 at 2015 6:34 PM

2015-08-14T18:34:16-04:00

What a complete dirt bag of a cop. I sincerely hopes he gets terminated. He is what's wrong with the law enforcement officers and it's cops like him that bring discredit upon the force

Response by SPC Robert Andres made Aug 14 at 2015 7:24 PM

2015-08-14T19:24:09-04:00

I myself am rated 90% for spinal injury and nerve damage. I can still walk (albeit limping) I do so every day in pain. I smile and nod and carry on. I know there are worse off than myself every day and don't let my disabilities own my body.

If he hadn't been so enraged and disgruntled over the initial reason of contact I would assume this would have gone smoother. Had he given the phone to his father to record the officer would probably have felt more at ease with the situation as well. I believe both could have dealt with their actions much differently here.

Response by SSG Keith Forbes made Aug 14 at 2015 11:04 PM

2015-08-14T23:04:52-04:00

Hands down, the cop was wrong. His only authority on this matter was to verify the placard was valid, as in red, which is temporary, & blue, which is permanent. They both have expiration dates on them.

Response by LCpl John Filiatrault made Aug 15 at 2015 1:23 AM

2015-08-15T01:23:41-04:00

I would have fired his fat ass after he made a public apology to all disabled persons for his attitude while in uniform no less. Especially with all the tension with law enforcement

Response by Sgt Harold Mccampbell made Aug 15 at 2015 1:25 AM

2015-08-15T01:25:49-04:00

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Sgt Harold Mccampbell
Sgt Harold Mccampbell less than a minute
I am a 100 percent disable veteran who also got question by the police for not having my cane at the time I left Walmart ! I left it in the cart and when I arrived to my car he pulls over and asked me for my id to verify my placard was legit! I have my handicap placard not for my knees but for my cancer! I gave anemia and I get tired ! Therefore dies the cane matter ? no ! Do I need a O2 tank No! I went thrum the hoops to get my placard! African American feel that police look for bullshit excuses to harasses Blacks ! Unfortunately we all know it true! I didn't argue with the cop being a ex officer my self I admit that I was trained in seeing blacks are more likely to committ a crime ! Yeah I said it! Bullshit ! But I left that job! Never less police need to have blinders when it comes to race., community policing is a must I feal! Live within your community your serving! Just glad no one was hurt !
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Response by LCpl John Filiatrault made Aug 15 at 2015 1:27 AM

2015-08-15T01:27:07-04:00

Brother you have nothing to be ashamed of as long as you served honorably and did your best for your country. We are judged by our deeds not our rank. Keep your head up. You have my utmost respect

Response by Sgt Bill Rollin Jr. made Aug 15 at 2015 2:18 AM

2015-08-15T02:18:47-04:00

What ignorance! That Lt. Rhodes should be busted down to a flash light cop! He should lose his job!!

Response by SSG Dennis Rosado made Aug 15 at 2015 2:23 AM

2015-08-15T02:23:18-04:00

That police officer needs to be relieved of his duty and I would get me attorney and press charges on the police officer!!!

Response by COL Charles Williams made Aug 15 at 2015 2:23 AM

2015-08-15T02:23:48-04:00

This is unfortunate. Many folks appear abuse (based on what I see) handicapped plates, and placards, and spots... but, I also know, you can't tell by looking what their issues are. Why is parking such a concern? I am 100% disabled.... and I could get plates, a placard, etc... I can walk, and I do. But, that is not the point. It is not the officer's decision. Why doesn't this end up on the news? The comment about the cops gut was funny... and... this is Horse shit and a half...

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2015 2:37 AM

2015-08-15T02:37:17-04:00

My biggest problem lies in that after being shut down by the veteran for obviously stepping over the line his authority grants, immediately turned around and tried running his plates and checking the veteran's record digging for any dirt he could sling to get back at him. The officer was not only unprofessional, but also disdainful and malicious simply because of a quarrel he himself created by overstepping his jurisdiction as a peace officer.

Response by SGT Ronald Mitchell made Aug 15 at 2015 6:31 AM

2015-08-15T06:31:43-04:00

Race was no factor in this matter, overuse of authority was. I believe it was the officers over zealous approach to correct what he thought was wrong. He failed his character test for the day. He could have obtained the correct information without having all of the extra conversation with the veteran. Run the plates, check the driver's license, check the placard and keep it moving. The officer had too much back and forth with the veteran. Totally unnecessary, borderline unprofessional, power trip gone wrong!! Apologize and keep it moving. Done deal. No lawsuits and no YouTube uploads!

Response by SFC Kenneth G. made Aug 15 at 2015 7:40 AM

2015-08-15T07:40:19-04:00

As a former police officer and a retired veteran, I am appalled at this officer's actions. He should be reprimanded and disciplined in some way that he will never forget the veteran is the reason he is able to have a job such as he enjoys today.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2015 7:58 AM

2015-08-15T07:58:12-04:00

Okay there is nothing I can say that hasn't already been said. So side one says even though you have placards identifying yourself as disabled, you don't look disabled. Side two says he qualifies and has taken the necessary steps to obtain his disability credentials.....officer has the right to question the vet but once confirmed...back off! The vet should comply, prove his status, keep calm AND if it is an ongoing issue file a complaint or go to the news.

The officer tried to justify by implying the vet, although disabled, can walk where a person needing assistance cannot so why not park in a regular spot. Not cool officer....this is your personal opinion and is not the law!

Overall I think the officer was wrong and could have de-escalated the situation. One cant see nerve damage. I know because I have it and it hurts to walk, sit, stand etc. Hope this does not happen to another disabled vet. My opinion.

Response by LTC Michael Hrycak made Aug 15 at 2015 8:49 AM

2015-08-15T08:49:43-04:00

CSM Uhlig, of course you are right, they both were escalating the incident and both sides started losing credibility. I haven't had a chance to watch the video to its completion, but provoking the officer and adding fuel to the fire does not help make veterans look better. The police officer was wrong in his approach as well, as a result he is now on administrative leave. The Soldier should have not allowed this to affect his bearing, as PFC Jones points out. We should always remember that in and out of uniform we all represent our respective armed services, and we should never let our brothers in arms down. I join my brothers in arms in always remembering all those not lucky enough to make it back home.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2015 8:52 AM

2015-08-15T08:52:06-04:00

Handicap spots are meant for people that are not mobile. This vet seems pretty mobile. The handicap placard system has been being abused for years. Doctors give them out for tons of bs reasons. If you're able to throw down with a cop you should not have the right to park in a handicap spot, because I'm pretty sure you're able to walk extra 20 feet. Just like the working dog system, it's being abused! Everybody has a working dog and it's not because they need one. It's because they want to have their purse dog with them 24/7. So they pay a doctor to say the dog keeps them calm, and they need the dog with them. People ruin everything! By the way I'm also a disabled veteran.

Response by PFC Derek Friedman made Aug 15 at 2015 9:31 AM

2015-08-15T09:31:12-04:00

TBI is brain damage. Emotional regulation is a challenge for many with TBI. Why is this man expected to keep cool and professional when the cop is harassing him? He isn't the man who joined the service, brain damage changes that.

Response by SFC Shane Funkhouser made Aug 15 at 2015 10:21 AM

2015-08-15T10:21:58-04:00

Well although I agree with the vet it isn't the cops right to decide whether someone's disabled or not I don't agree with his behavior either. He was antagonistic and talking trash and although the cop was wrong to slap the phone it was a provoked response. As a vet you should have more respect towards authority. I know it is frustrating when the cops make assumptions about your disability but with all the people with fake tags and you appearing perfectly able you can't really get mad about it. He was trying to ensure that space was being used by people who really need it. You could have just shown him your Id and asked him to run the tag without all the drama. As an 80% disabled vet myself who most days appears fine I have had situations like this happen also. But to be honest on the days I feel capable I will park somewhere besides the handicap spot. And let someone who's having a worse day then me use it.

Response by SGT Jeff Poor made Aug 15 at 2015 11:42 AM

2015-08-15T11:42:06-04:00

That cop should be fired for harassing a disabled veteran!!

Response by SFC Michael Hair made Aug 15 at 2015 11:42 AM

2015-08-15T11:42:15-04:00

I am disabled 50% from a back injury. I have been for 10 years. I do not have a handicapped plate as of yet. I have no outward signs, do not use a cane or walker yet. I do have pains after a short distance. I haven't brought myself to get them because I feel there are people more handicapped than me and know that I would be scorned if I step out of the vehicle without some tragic looking device. People can see the wounds or injury and assume you must be faking or using someone else placard. People make assumptions and bias every day. Even I do.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2015 12:00 PM

2015-08-15T12:00:39-04:00

Seems like James is just acting like a punk. If the Officer is right or wrong. This guy is discarding the Army by acting like a punk.

Response by SPC Tyler Ray made Aug 15 at 2015 12:58 PM

2015-08-15T12:58:57-04:00

Gah... Dude is annoying either way ...

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Aug 15 at 2015 1:02 PM

2015-08-15T13:02:46-04:00

The veterans rights were violated. The officer was wrong.

Response by PO1 Sojourner "Chancy" Phillips made Aug 15 at 2015 1:53 PM

2015-08-15T13:53:15-04:00

This make me so angry and sick. The nerve of people to think they have a right to determine your disability is just because they cannot see it is disrespectful and stupid. My husband is a wounded combat veteran who also has Parkinson's Disease. If all is working right with the meds he looks and walk "normal" and does not need a cane. However if all is not right he has a really hard time. He has a the right to handicap parking. We have not had anyone out right say anything but we get dirty looks when we park in handicap spaces. Sometimes I think it is because they see him as "too young to be handicap". I don't think most have the nerve to say anything because of the he Army and Navy stickers on our vehicles. What i have found interesting is that when I lived near Walter Reed I saw a lot of young veterans in wheelchairs and what I noticed was the amount of people who would look away because the reality of war and what happens to the Military that so many want to eagerly deploy, was too much for them to handle.

I just recently counseled a fellow colleague who is not prior military and has a brain injury through a similar situation where someone told her "she looks fine" when she was asking for help in managing her job and is stresses. She has a TBI and deserves assistance when she needs it and respect for what she is dealing with. I explained to her that she was not alone and that there are thousands of veterans that have had to go through this and fought to not have to put up with assholes that have no clue when it comes to disabilities. The lack of empathy for your fellow person is what we have here. No one should have to justify their disability.

Response by MSG Scott McCue made Aug 15 at 2015 2:27 PM

2015-08-15T14:27:03-04:00

Where is Jesse?

Response by Cpl Kendall Garmon made Aug 15 at 2015 2:37 PM

2015-08-15T14:37:32-04:00

AHAHAHA OM Goodness what a stupid stupid cop!!

Response by SGT Jonathan Wadkins` made Aug 15 at 2015 2:48 PM

2015-08-15T14:48:59-04:00

If he was a fat butt like officer Wilson, bet there would have been no problem!

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 15 at 2015 4:15 PM

2015-08-15T16:15:49-04:00

The veteran must be pretty tall as the phone was point down on the cops.

Response by SGT Tim Whittenberg made Aug 15 at 2015 4:22 PM

2015-08-15T16:22:59-04:00

This guy is in the right, but he asks someone to call police...while he's recording FROM HIS CELLPHONE...lol...That's the country we live in. Ever notice these videos are all recorded with blacks and rednecks?...ugh

Response by SPC David S. made Aug 15 at 2015 5:38 PM

2015-08-15T17:38:06-04:00

I think the approach by the was the police office was bad - Excuse me sir I'm not sure if your aware you park in a handicap parking space. Yes officer I did I'm a disabled vet here's my VA card. Hey thanks for sticking up for us disable folks. Do you want to run the placard officer? The officer came out swinging not thinking some vet would hold his ground. However I think the SM could have been a little more professional as well.

Response by SGT Jason Dougherty made Aug 15 at 2015 7:22 PM

2015-08-15T19:22:36-04:00

The LEO should have quit when he saw the placard was legal.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2015 7:22 PM

2015-08-15T19:22:43-04:00

Sue his ASS

Response by SPC Kelly Taylor made Aug 15 at 2015 8:55 PM

2015-08-15T20:55:00-04:00

This so called public servant would not make it 5 mins of basic. Don't they have fitness standards anymore? I'm not picking on this Cop but come on.
After the scandal at the VA, the thumbing of the nose to us for taking an oath to lay down our lives for a country that seems to hate us? Once this cop heard he was a disabled veteran he should have thank him for his service and waddled away.
I'll say what so many can't seem to pull out of their ass. Thank you for your service and for giving so much of yourself to defend this idiots right to be said idiot!

Response by SrA Kenneth Ramos made Aug 15 at 2015 10:09 PM

2015-08-15T22:09:32-04:00

If what I gathered from the video that the police officer asked him to move his vehicle from the handicap parking the officer is 100% in the wrong and should have ran the placard/drivers license first to verify his legal right to park in the spot. The officers personal view on who should or shouldn't be parked in the handicap parking spot does not give him the right to ask him or anyone else to relocate. I hope the veteran does pursue this legally(at the very least have his phone replaced) to better train our public servants on proper procedure and legal rights. The officer admitted his own guilt of being in the wrong when he voiced his personal views. Case closed

Response by Sgt Jim Garrity made Aug 16 at 2015 12:14 AM

2015-08-16T00:14:01-04:00

For someone that can only walk a short distance, he did pretty going walking around for the 20+ minutes of the video, but maybe know else noticed. Also funny how the price of the phone went from $700 to $800.

Response by PFC Bertha Mayo made Aug 16 at 2015 12:20 AM

2015-08-16T00:20:11-04:00

The Police was dead wrong! I am a 100% disable Vet! Some days are better than other! I have a handicap plate

Response by PFC Michael Drink made Aug 16 at 2015 12:51 AM

2015-08-16T00:51:44-04:00

Sounds like that POS cop is offended by Veterans. I Understood his point about the Vet not looking disabled Even though it is not the cops job to determine who is disabled.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2015 1:01 AM

2015-08-16T01:01:58-04:00

If he survived * IED's then that might make him a little hot headed. He was in the right and the officer was in the wrong. That fat officer was probably mad because he once wanted to enlist but he couldn't meet the physical standards. So now he hates his life, and bully's people because he is a cop. The vet had all documents and ID cards to prove he was disabled. I would have went about this situation a little differently, but I understand why he was mad. Also there were a few other disabled parking spots available and he was only going to be in the store for a few mins.

Response by PO3 Rogelio Zarate made Aug 16 at 2015 1:14 AM

2015-08-16T01:14:38-04:00

When did this office get his medical degree? To decide whether this gentleman is disabled or not?

Response by TSgt Larry Abernathy made Aug 16 at 2015 2:41 AM

2015-08-16T02:41:50-04:00

Personally, I feel that a person with a disability, especially one that isn't obvious, should carry some sort of card with proof that they are the disabled person. I'm sure there are plenty of people that use their family member's vehicle so they can park closer to the stores. I know that officers can run the license plates, but we have my mother-in-law living with us, and her handicap card is kept in our van because she doesn't have a vehicle. We never park in a handicapped spot unless she is with us.
This officer should have stopped after running the plates to see that the car did belong to a disabled person.

Response by SFC Joseph Weber made Aug 16 at 2015 3:56 AM

2015-08-16T03:56:00-04:00

The officer was probably pissed that his application for a handicap card for being grossly overweight was denied.

Response by PO3 Dr. Todd Marquez, PT, DPT, MA made Aug 16 at 2015 8:24 AM

2015-08-16T08:24:44-04:00

This problem happens with patients who have other disorders that appear one day, but not the next. Some people with multiple sclerosis look great, and then the next day they are unraveled. Personally, I say give all combat veterans, regardless of injury, the front row of every parking lot. They've earned it.

Response by PFC Michael Korach made Aug 16 at 2015 8:55 AM

2015-08-16T08:55:01-04:00

It's unfortunate that both these gentleman failed to communicate . I can see both sides of this issue. Their is plenty of blame to go around. Not much respect .

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2015 10:27 AM

2015-08-16T10:27:54-04:00

This is a great example ...it exemplifies the fact that our "public trust" needs a situational awareness check. We have a large; rapidly growing disabled vet population from OEF/OIF. You do not have to see an obvious physical deformity.......the largest exposure/disability now and is increasing is the psychological impact of war...PTSD.

Response by Sgt Paul Johnson made Aug 16 at 2015 12:47 PM

2015-08-16T12:47:13-04:00

What people don't know is that not all disabilities are visible. So people can't breathe good others have bad hearts, backs....

Response by SGT Ryan Hawley made Aug 16 at 2015 2:45 PM

2015-08-16T14:45:08-04:00

From the article and video the cop was all in the wrong. Police have lost their purpose. They no longer protect and serve.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2015 2:46 PM

2015-08-16T14:46:39-04:00

It is such a disgrace when an officer is suppose to protect and serve yet he picks on a veteran. Just because this gentleman does not look handicapped does t mean the officer has the right to question it. The doctors gave him the plaque therefore how the hell does this officer do

Response by SGT Eric Dziekan made Aug 16 at 2015 3:14 PM

2015-08-16T15:14:37-04:00

I'm a disabled veteran also and had a similar situation with an officer a few years ago. Fortunately he had a better head on his shoulders and listened to me and we were able to resolve the issue there. They don't realize that there are more and more young soldiers coming out of combat disabled and not all disabilities are visible.

Response by Cpl James Merry made Aug 16 at 2015 3:20 PM

2015-08-16T15:20:29-04:00

Cops with little man syndrome. Cops have too much authority and need to be held at a higher standard.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2015 6:28 PM

2015-08-16T18:28:02-04:00

Best line in this video: Vet says, "...Just because I don't look handicapped. You don't look well enough to be a f'n officer with your gut hanging over your stomach."

My take on this is that the cop was perfectly fine to check credentials to verify someone wasn't wrongfully using another's placard, but should have done it respectfully. In a perfect world, the vet should have maintained his bearing a bit better, but I can understand why he would be upset, and I don't think he did anything wrong. Also, TBI can make it physiologically more difficult to remain calm. The cop should have never gotten into an argument with the vet about whether or not his disability is serious enough to merit the parking spot, and certainly should not have slapped his phone out of his hand.

Bottom line: Officer Wilson is not the authority over who is/is not disabled, and should have just checked, then moved along... Maybe this is just another overweight cop who needs to find a new line of work because he's making his profession look bad. It's good that dispatch sent another cop out there to act impartially and calm the situation. I believe most cops across the country act more like that second one, but the ones who act the fool like the first one get much more media attention, misrepresenting an honorable profession.

Response by Sgt Ken Gergely made Aug 16 at 2015 8:03 PM

2015-08-16T20:03:08-04:00

Guy is a tool, however in Michigan a DV plate alone does not warrant a handicap spot.

Response by PO2 Christopher Savage made Aug 16 at 2015 8:20 PM

2015-08-16T20:20:41-04:00

Seeing as everyone has posted something about this and said pretty much everything that needs to be said, I want to say (hopefully to James directly) that James needs to now get some Identity Theft protection. He just gave out his social, DOB, Full name, relative living location, and a number of other PII data that now puts him at massive risk.
Also, kudos to the second police officer for changing the direction of the argument and defusing the situation as best as possible. THATS how Officer Wilson should have behaved.

Response by Sgt Michael Schmidlkofer made Aug 16 at 2015 9:07 PM

2015-08-16T21:07:56-04:00

Fatty needs to worry about getting some PT in before his shift.

Response by Sgt Steven Easton made Aug 16 at 2015 9:13 PM

2015-08-16T21:13:25-04:00

By the looks of this fat ass he has no clue what means to serve your country in combat. I stand behind this wounded warrior 100%.

Response by SSG Leonard Cartwright made Aug 16 at 2015 10:00 PM

2015-08-16T22:00:48-04:00

if he came back clean it over.

Response by SFC Keith Ames made Aug 17 at 2015 12:54 AM

2015-08-17T00:54:49-04:00

Sorry cop was wrong

Response by SGT Matthew Millett made Aug 17 at 2015 1:38 AM

2015-08-17T01:38:47-04:00

Somebody tell him to take the video down, edit it, then put it back up. His name, social, driver license number, everything is on this video...

Response by CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) made Aug 17 at 2015 3:25 AM

2015-08-17T03:25:22-04:00

I am an active reservist (36 years in the service, both active and reserve), I am disabled from multiple combat related injuries, I am rated 100% by the VA and am disabled per the Social Security Administration. I've had three major surgeries and have both temporary and permanent profiles. Regardless, I still meet the minimum requirements for retention in the Army. I am also a medically retired state trooper from AZ (21 years). Given this brief history, I feel I strongly compelled to respond to this topic.

Like Mr. James, I too can walk. I have a disabled placard issued to me by the State of AZ after I submitted the legal proof to obtain the placard (I'm sure Florida has similar requirements). I use the placard when I need to, just like Mr. James. Based upon what I saw in this video, OFC Wilson is wrong, wrong, wrong. First, his opinion of whether Mr James is disabled is immaterial. The ONLY issues involving OFC Wilson is whether the placard is valid, who it is issued to and whether the occupant of the vehicle is Mr James. He can also check Mr James' driver's license and insurance information. Once OFC Wilson verified this information,THAT'S IT! He has no reason to detain Mr James any further. But OFC Wilson decided to escalate the situation by knocking Mr James' cellphone out of his hand several times. Not only was this exceptionally UNPROFESSIONAL, in AZ it would constitute an ASSAULT on Mr James - a crime! BTW, Mr James has every right to video OFC Wilson, provided it does not directly interfere with OFC Wilson's detainment, which it did not. OFC Wilson, like many cops, simply did not want to be videoed and he let his personal feelings again overwhelm his required professional behavior.

So, at a minimum, OFC Wilson has behaved in an exceptionally unprofessional manner and probably committed the crime of assault (in my professional opinion). Bottom line: He allowed his personal feelings to take over and he lost control of the situation. Dependent upon his history of sustained complaints, I believe OFC Wilson should be suspended without pay for the maximum period allowed in Florida. If he is charged and found guilty of committing assault, he will be fired and should be. I simply can't believe anyone would lay blame on Mr James for anything and I laud him for not backing down, for capturing this incident on video and especially for not doing anything foolish. You see, I too have had encounters with both the public and the police because I can walk - fortunately nothing to this extent, but it has happened. It's both embarrassing and hurtful to be "eye judged" simply because I can walk. To be honest, it also really pisses me off but I suck it up because I am a professional. It also disturbs me that some of the "leaders" commenting on this lay any blame on Mr James. Unreal.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2015 4:51 AM

2015-08-17T04:51:25-04:00

Cop was wrong

Response by SP5 Cheryl Deziel made Aug 17 at 2015 6:47 AM

2015-08-17T06:47:25-04:00

Wow this officer is deciding if this man is a disabled veteran and he could not run around the block to chase anyone

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2015 8:21 AM

2015-08-17T08:21:14-04:00

I can't imagine this exchange started based on only the look of James, but if so this is outrageous. There are many reason that people qualify for handicapped tags, and as far as I know there are no differences in handicapped parking spaces. From the looks of the video and article the officer's actions look to be out of line in a big way.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2015 9:02 AM

2015-08-17T09:02:19-04:00

Wow, this is horrible! So unnecessary of the PO, the disabled man was upset but he didn't not approach or strike the PO. So sad if you can't control your anger! All he had to do is run the disabled vets tags and he would have clearly had his answer. If I was there I would have called the police! The Officer seems bitter

Response by SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS made Aug 17 at 2015 9:53 AM

2015-08-17T09:53:37-04:00

I have watched this video too many times at this point. Several things come to mind. First, in Florida, a disabled placard is issued to a person and may be used in any vehicle. The person to whom it is issued has their drivers license number printed on the month and year expiration sticker. Easy to check and verify. This officer did not do that until this had gone on way too long. As a career law enforcement officer in and out of the military I would say he allowed his personal feelings to over ride the law. He seemed as though he had an issue with Veterans in general with the "does that make you better than a citizen" rhetoric.

I am disabled and have a handicapped placard. I use it when I need to due to pain or mobility issues related to my disabilities. If questioned, I would be out raged, but would provide my FL DL and placard for examination and verification. If it went on beyond that to a berating, I would react adversely.

This is another in a string of recent incidents where my brother and sisters LEOs are allowing poor judgment to overshadow policy, procedure, authority, and common sense. At the very least the Veteran in this rant deserves an apology. Law enforcement officers enforce the law and once it was discovered that no law was violated this stop should have ended.

My motto always has been professionalism above all else, no matter what. However, the human factor always comes to play.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2015 11:45 AM

2015-08-17T11:45:17-04:00

The rhetoric about this is quite entertaining..opinions are like A** Holes...Everyone has one! I won't bother to voice my opinion because everything that could be stated [good and bad] has been stated..The court will ultimately decide the outcome---hopefully a peaceful and fair outcome plays out.

Response by CPL Richard Rios made Aug 17 at 2015 11:46 AM

2015-08-17T11:46:18-04:00

Insecure LEO.

Response by PO3 Helen Hill made Aug 17 at 2015 12:24 PM

2015-08-17T12:24:12-04:00

Unfortunately this happens all the time to our Vets who are disabled...just because they are not using crutches or are in a wheelchair does not mean there is nothing wrong with them...many disabilities are not seen but they are there. I pray that they fire this officer and make him pay restitution for causing this veteran undo duress.

Response by SPC Bill LeBeau made Aug 17 at 2015 12:38 PM

2015-08-17T12:38:55-04:00

White cop treats African American with respect...wonder if that will play out in the media?

Response by SSgt Timothy Nestor made Aug 17 at 2015 12:54 PM

2015-08-17T12:54:06-04:00

The police have the right to check to make sure that the ones using the handicap parking are legal holders of the placards. So many people miss use them because handicap is closer to the door. I have a handicap card from the state of Virginia all I have to do is persent the card with my drivers license and all question are answer.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2015 6:49 PM

2015-08-17T18:49:07-04:00

I apologize to the CSM for my rant. This thing just hit a nerve. It's like following all the rules, and going above and beyond and then getting chewed out for it. I occasionally use a cane when I need to, should I use it (whether or not I need it) every time I park in a disabled spot (if I do at all) as a badge that shows everyone "Hey, I'm a disabled vet? I think not. Do I demand respect and thanks for my service? No. but I gladly accept it. . I wear a hat that says USAF Vet, US Army retired. If that is a sign that portrays a request for recognition, then I'm guilty. As far as being special, statistics show that all of us are. And if you are service connected...two attaboys. There is no draft, and we are the .04% of the population that now or have protected the 99.06% that haven't served, while they enjoy the fruits of our labors and sacrifices for their Freedoms. Bring back the draft, whether for military , community or humanitarian service. There's something that can be done for our country by every one, even if they can't pass the physical or mental criteria for the military. Everyone of age should at least go through some type of training (like the Israelis) in case we have to defend ourselves on our own soil. Think it can't happen? What is the difference between a rocket attack in Israel, or the attacks on the Twin Towers and the Boston bombings or the Tennessee shootings. None. Same result. Radical Muslim Jihadist (and that's what they should be called), are here. Russia is teaming up with China, and Iran is not our best buddy. We no longer have the Oceans to protect us. As far as me, I don't care , I'm ready, but I'm scared to death for my children and grand children. I think it's time for this country to fall back, regroup and (quote) walk softly and carry a big stick. I hope and pray the next POTUS gets it, but it maybe to late. There I go, rambling again and a little off subject. Again I apologize, but stand by my feelings.....PROUD to be an American and PROUD to have served.

Response by MSG James Douglas made Aug 17 at 2015 7:01 PM

2015-08-17T19:01:35-04:00

I'm getting ready to retire so I will save my comments till later.......

Response by PFC Michael Santoro made Aug 17 at 2015 10:45 PM

2015-08-17T22:45:59-04:00

he handled that well

Response by CW4 John Karl T. made Aug 18 at 2015 3:57 AM

2015-08-18T03:57:18-04:00

If this happened to me, I would not use foul language. I would say, "Officer if you think that I am not disabled, write me a ticket and I will see you in court."

Response by CW5 Joe Tygart made Aug 18 at 2015 5:30 AM

2015-08-18T05:30:43-04:00

Waaaaaay - over-reacting. Lucky the man didn't get a field sobriety test.

Response by SGT Nani Deleon made Aug 18 at 2015 5:59 AM

2015-08-18T05:59:30-04:00

The police officer has a responsibility to carry out his duties honorably and without abused of authority. He has the responsibility to check but not the right to abused the citizen (disable veteran). Clearly This officer needs retraining and needs to be at a desk job if he has pins in his legs as indicated by him. The individual has a right not to be subjected to the abuse he endured by the police officer. The fact that the officer lashes out shows he is incapable of doing his job honorably and would arrest someone if the same acts where committed against him. This cop is someone else's nightmare waiting to happen. Regardless if the veteran is behaving badly at some point, he HAS the right defend himself against an injustice act.

Response by PO3 Josie Buchanan made Aug 18 at 2015 9:06 AM

2015-08-18T09:06:45-04:00

That "officer" needs to be fired.

Response by SSgt Michael Best made Aug 18 at 2015 10:41 AM

2015-08-18T10:41:49-04:00

I hate to say it but this is something I have heard many, many times before. I am 100% thru the VA with PTSD. I use a Service dog to make it thru the day, I constantly hear, your not blind, why do you have that dog, or you don't look disabled to me. I used to try and educate folks about service dogs and there uses, but it seems it never ends, so I have gotten to the point I ignore most people now. I feel the same as Isiah does in the video, you have no right to decide whether my disability is valid or not, That decision has already been made.

Response by SPC Koty LaPorte made Aug 18 at 2015 11:43 AM

2015-08-18T11:43:30-04:00

This U.S. veteran handeled this slice of Fuckin ham..probably a lot better than I would have...

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2015 12:00 PM

2015-08-18T12:00:59-04:00

This is bullshit. The vet pissed me off. I think he was exaggerating his injuries. First he says he was blown up eight times, then he says three. The cop had a right to check him out, but if the vet would have kept his mouth shut and / or his language clean it wouldn't have gone that far. The cop didn't have the right to knock the phone out of the vets hand, but the vet was clearly antagonist toward the cop, and pissed him off. Had the vet showed the cop respect, he would have shown the vet respect. I parked in a handicap spot one time. A cop pulled in beside me and when I got out, he told me I better have a limp. I do limp a little but my Disability is for PTSD and severe depression. I told the cop to look at my plate and he would see I could park there. It was the only spot available so I parked there. Nothing else was said. I wasn't flaunting my plate in his face. I can walk just like the vet in the video, but I don't park in handicap spots because I can walk, and because I know there are disabilities that need the spot more than I do. I see DV plates parked in handicaped spots all the time. Some are necessary, but a lot of them aren't, when I see them walk better than I do. Common sense tells you, if you can walk without a lot of pain, you don't need to park in a handicap spot. If you have a little limp, the exercise is good for you. I take the stairs when I go to the VA. Too many hanging around the elevators and the stairs are quicker and are good exercise.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2015 12:33 PM

2015-08-18T12:33:45-04:00

Everyone is over looking the second officer in this video, who clearly demonstrates what a police officer is supposed to do, separate the parties(note officer 1 tries to interfere with this), de escalate the situation, get the facts, and then explain recourse. Good on him. Personally I think he should have placed the first officer under arrest for suspicion of assault, but expecting police to hold each other to the same standard as any other citizen is just a bridge too far.

Response by MSG Donald Pearce made Aug 18 at 2015 1:30 PM

2015-08-18T13:30:55-04:00

Officer is out of line,,and out of shape,,,could no make it in the Military,,,needs to be relieved!!!!!!!

Response by SGT Jason Marcellus made Aug 18 at 2015 2:36 PM

2015-08-18T14:36:44-04:00

Another police officer that thinks he has power. Your the messenger of the law guys not the law itself. He was within the law. Leave your bias at home.

Response by SGT Lawrence Corser made Aug 18 at 2015 7:05 PM

2015-08-18T19:05:37-04:00

I read the article, the online portion said the guy had no tags or visible placard? does this sound right did anyone else see this? If it is this then this troop is at fault, plus if you arent respectful to a officer even if he/she is being a turd you run the risk of getting jacked up. just be quiet and take it to court if it gets bad.

Response by SPC Michael Savage made Aug 18 at 2015 8:01 PM

2015-08-18T20:01:52-04:00

Cops such as the one in the video hate being challenged because it hurts their ego. This cop assaulted that veteran because of ego and a loss of control/temper. He needs not to be on any patrols unsupervised. Scary thing is he is a sergeant. Buy that vet a new phone, lose weight and reevaluate your situation.

Response by PFC Kenneth Cochrane made Aug 18 at 2015 8:28 PM

2015-08-18T20:28:00-04:00

I hope that fat fuck and poor excuse of a police officer gets fired and looses his pension, and gets charged with harassment.....

Response by Sgt Edward Padget made Aug 18 at 2015 10:52 PM

2015-08-18T22:52:17-04:00

I agree with pretty much everyone here. I think the point is missed because somehow this got turned into the LEO deciding weather or not the veteran was disabled. He never said he wasn't disabled, the veteran just sort of ran with that statement. Saying "You don't look disabled" isn't the same as saying "You are not disabled." The LEO's delivery was horrible and he could definitely use the some training on speaking and delivery. The veteran just seems keep stoking the fires and circling back to the same argument he's actually the one implying that the officer was trying to say he was disabled. I get why the vet is angry, I just think he should have handled himself as well as he was expecting the officer to handle himself. His attitude of "I can say whatever I want and act however I want as long as I don't accost you..." says a lot about his temperament, and his willingness to overstep legal boundries. He'd be wise to read up on what a person can actually do or say to LEO. I'm sorry this happened to the vet, but I hope when he reviews the video he'll agree he was out of line as well. He was right in the argument but he was out of line, there is a difference.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2015 11:17 PM

2015-08-18T23:17:23-04:00

He may be a disabled veteran, but he was completely out of line with the officer. I think the officer handle this situation with great restraint and professionalism. If this gentleman is veteran he should be embarrassed about how he handle this situation.

Response by PO1 Marc Vasquez made Aug 18 at 2015 11:57 PM

2015-08-18T23:57:29-04:00

This cop was clearly in the wrong, but he's on to something. The states should not be so lenient when issuing disabled placards. In my state, you get DV plates and a handicap placard regardless of your disability. Mental disabilities, and many other injuries do not prevent you from walking an extra 10 seconds from your car to the store. I have the DV plate but declined to accept a handicap placard because it's bullshit. Many veterans use it without needing it. In my opinion this only serves to feed their need to be a victim or gain sympathy.

Response by SSgt Christopher Brose made Aug 19 at 2015 2:00 AM

2015-08-19T02:00:05-04:00

A few things pop into mind here.

-- In light of incidents involving police (when the officers are antagonists AND when they are the victims), and considering the litigious society we live in, it's prudent to video things as they happen. Cops have dash cams in their cars, and routinely video encounters with civilians when the cops pull them over. I think it was unreasonable for the cop in this case to tell the veteran that he shouldn't be videoing.

-- The cop at least a few times was aggressive, coming toward the veteran as he was backing away. When "get that camera out of my face" happened, it didn't seem to be "in his face" as most people would consider it.

-- Both the cop and the veteran needed to tone it down. I understand why both of them got heated, but the cop was on the job, meaning he was in his professional working environment. Unfairly or not, cops are held to higher standards, and the burden was on him to keep things calm or calm things down. He failed.

-- If I understand the situation correctly, the cop told the veteran to move his car from the handicapped spot as the veteran was coming out of the store. Wasn't the veteran going to move his car anyway, having completed his business? If so, the veteran's response showed a pretty significant lack of judgment, even if he was being challenged about the legitimacy of his handicap.

Response by Cpl Stephen Daly made Aug 19 at 2015 10:04 AM

2015-08-19T10:04:55-04:00

I don't think being a disabled vet entitles you to park in a handicapped parking spot, I think you still need the handicapped placard..

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2015 1:56 PM

2015-08-19T13:56:36-04:00

It is unfortunate that we can ask for the police to be arrested for assault, on the spot, in the same manner that a common citizen gets arrested. There is no administrative leave with possible suspension or loss of job for the common citizens. We get jailed!

Response by CPL Norm Lowe made Aug 19 at 2015 3:08 PM

2015-08-19T15:08:47-04:00

cop was wrong plain and simple.

Response by LCpl Hilton Hoskins made Aug 19 at 2015 3:22 PM

2015-08-19T15:22:51-04:00

The Police Officer was wrong, plain and simple. Speaking as a service connected veteran myself. I would be pissed off if a Police Officer did this to me. I would want his badge too. If you have a handicapped placard, it's for a reason. Simple as that. I get tired of people treating our veterans like second class citizens.

Response by Sgt Michael Diniz made Aug 19 at 2015 3:40 PM

2015-08-19T15:40:45-04:00

whether he is disabled in our eyes or the police officers eyes is not the issue. Some doctor decided that he was disabled to the point that a placard was necessary. The police officer is not a doctor and his opinion on this veterans disability is irrelevant. His job is to check the status of the vets disability and not to personally rate his disability as compared to somebody elses, i.e., the old lady he referred to, or a person in a wheelchair.

Response by SFC Jon Vandeyacht made Aug 19 at 2015 6:11 PM

2015-08-19T18:11:10-04:00

I have been challenged 3 times in the last year. I have lower back problems and had procedures for that. Have constant knee problems and get injections of synvisc annually to help keep them from cutting them open. Have left hip and foot problems after getting ran over by an idiot on a cell phone who blew a stop sign. Had left side of face repaired, tons of titanium there.....if i have a fresh dose of pain killers, i can walk and move.... when challenged, i have a practiced rant that lasts 3 minutes. The challenger always quickly leaves as i hobble after them, seeing as they instantly find out they screwed with the wrong pissed off injured tbi suffering vet who wont take crap from anyone. Cops might get less drastic action but the practiced rant still lets them know that they will have to arrest me before i will move my car and their lawyer at the departments expense is very much so, not worth the bad publicity or resulting lawsuit. You cant threaten them but you can challenge them. Wisconsin is also a single party permission state in that only one party needs to give consent to record the i trraction, and as such, cops are breaking the law by telling you to not record the interaction. Know the laws of your state, that is the true power of the citizen. Just dont threaten them with the laws, do it passivly by asking questions in which the answer is obviously in your favor.....

Response by SrA Donald Bacha made Aug 19 at 2015 8:03 PM

2015-08-19T20:03:03-04:00

Ok that's really a police officer? Cuz he doesn't embody one! He might have eaten a police officer but he isn't one

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2015 9:51 PM

2015-08-19T21:51:15-04:00

The problem with this video is that it does not show the entire encounter. There are a lot of people who will use someone else's handicap placard to park in a handicap space. That is illegal. If the officer felt that was the case, then he had the right and obligation to investigate. The video does not show the start of the encounter, only the end where things were already going down hill. The officer should not have knocked the camera out of the man's hand, but on the other hand, the veteran was extremely antagonistic and is lucky he did not wind up with a disorderly conduct charge for the foul language in a public place. I'm disappointed in both peoples actions in the short portion of the encounter that we got to see. It also disappoints me how many people have made disrespectful comments about the officer without having all the facts. As a military member we should support law enforcement. Many officers are former military and the vast majority have great respect for our service. We should respect their service.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2015 10:35 PM

2015-08-19T22:35:25-04:00

But you don't see this making the news.....I wonder why???

Response by SPC Greg Davis made Aug 19 at 2015 11:48 PM

2015-08-19T23:48:57-04:00

This why I don't get disability tags. Even though I have an 80 percent and can't go out anywhere without wearing a knee brace on each knee and a brace on my left ankle; I really don't want to have to deal with that kind of crap because I can still walk. I just say screw it and deal with the pain.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2015 12:13 AM

2015-08-20T00:13:45-04:00

I have disabled veterans license plates, but I rarely park in a handicapped spot. I figure someone who is actually in a wheel chair needs it more than me. I was not blown up 8 times in combat, however.

In this case, the cop was clearly wrong. The vet didn't do a lot to help de-escalate the situation, however.

Response by SSG James Steele made Aug 20 at 2015 2:34 AM

2015-08-20T02:34:57-04:00

This officer needs to be FIRED so he can pursue his other occupation, DDS Wilson (Doctor Dip Shit), WHO does he think he is? This is wrong on SO MANY levels!!

Response by PV2 Jo Lee made Aug 20 at 2015 2:46 AM

2015-08-20T02:46:23-04:00

It is a sad sad case its the ol willie lynch syndrome. He's a black cop throwing his weight around on a blk vet mind you would this happen to a white vet whose legal as this brother is. It's sad we as Veterans get treated this way. The cop is obviously in the wrong but he doesn't care.

Response by SGT Yvette M Hughes made Aug 20 at 2015 4:36 AM

2015-08-20T04:36:09-04:00

In my opinion this officer was out of order. This veteran had the necessary documentation to support his handicap claim. Plus touching the veterans belongings without permission is a violation.

Response by SGT Charles Vernier made Aug 20 at 2015 11:45 AM

2015-08-20T11:45:29-04:00

I'm curious as to the comments about how the veteran could have handled it better. He had no obligation to do anything differently. The officer was on duty and in uniform, he had the obligation to conduct himself professionally. If his presence was the result of a citizen complaint then the correct course of action would have been to verify the disability & move on. Placards are granted for different reason that are not always obvious to the uniformed & there are those select few who will use a relative's placard to their own benefit. Once the individual's right to use the placard is established it's time to move on.

Response by SGT Clyde Hicks made Aug 20 at 2015 12:56 PM

2015-08-20T12:56:15-04:00

The DV plates are abused by some. The qualification is not the same for civilian and military. The laziness and comfort of parking up front is upsetting. I know some DV need it but not all.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2015 1:36 PM

2015-08-20T13:36:53-04:00

Its even worse for female veterans because people assume that we are not actually veterans because how could we be, we are women. This is a disturbing trend and this officer was unprofessional and in the wrong. How is this officer to know if a veteran has a traumatic brain injury that causes seizures or something worse. People have no respect for veterans as a whole.

Response by 1SG Juzt Xzan made Aug 20 at 2015 3:41 PM

2015-08-20T15:41:53-04:00

Phone went from 700 to 800 dollars in a minute LMAO

Response by PO2 Samuel Shumate made Aug 20 at 2015 3:58 PM

2015-08-20T15:58:48-04:00

I believe that both are in the wrong. First the officer could have said that he understands that Mr. James is disabled and could have even thanked him for his service. Officer Wilson could have told Mr. James that he was just checking to make sure that the handicap placard was registered to him and not someone else. For all we know the police department could have received complaints about people parking in handicap parking without the proper placard. Officer Wilson should never have touched Mr. James or his phone, and should have called a Lieutenant to come when Mr. James asked for another officer to come. Mr. James should never have brought up what all was going on in the world today with police officers. Mr. James defiantly should not have said what do you want to shot a disabled veteran. Police officers are lied to all the time and Officer Wilson could have felt like Mr. James was being dishonest, and may not have been very knowledgeable about the VA cards etc. Officer Wilson should have kept his composure better just as Mr. James should have kept his composure better. Two wrongs does not make a right no matter how you look at it. Both are just as at fault as the other.

Response by CDR Charles Thompson made Aug 20 at 2015 6:23 PM

2015-08-20T18:23:03-04:00

The officer was definitely out of line. My question would be how did hwi get the badge in the first place? He needs to be doing something else.

Response by MAJ Patrick Hairston CISSP, AWS Certified Cloud Architect made Aug 20 at 2015 8:53 PM

2015-08-20T20:53:22-04:00

The question from the cop should have been "Sir, do you have a disability placecard"? If the answer is no, then "Sir, you need to move your vehicle". If yes, STFU and look for another donut shop. Some officers get drunk with power. They have to understand that their job is not to harrass. Americans are supposed TO BE LEFT ALONE to enjoy our freedom.

Response by SSG Sean Knudsen made Aug 20 at 2015 9:57 PM

2015-08-20T21:57:53-04:00

How bout that fellas, we both serve to protect and one isn't talking now. Doesn't pass the smell test now does it?!?!

Response by SrA Tony Schamberger made Aug 20 at 2015 10:01 PM

2015-08-20T22:01:24-04:00

This had angered me to no end. I want to write the police chief. The officer Assaulted him too. Where are the charges!?

Response by PO2 Steve Walker made Aug 20 at 2015 10:16 PM

2015-08-20T22:16:35-04:00

i am a vet and a police officer. the vet could have handled it differently (alot calmer). film it and take it to the supervisor. as for the police officer i would fire him. my opinion means jack diddly when it comes to the law and enforcing it. he was not professional, assualted the vet and should be fired.

Response by MSG Franklin Mclelland made Aug 20 at 2015 11:58 PM

2015-08-20T23:58:41-04:00

That was way out of line for that officer to do that. The second officer was actually trying doing the right thing and trying to help the guy, but that was total BS on the first officer's part, for attacking the man. The veteran might have been a little to excited, but that officer's excuse was BS.

Response by SSG Mark Matteson made Aug 21 at 2015 12:06 AM

2015-08-21T00:06:49-04:00

I think this guy isnt even a Vet

Response by MSG Todd Carter made Aug 21 at 2015 12:36 AM

2015-08-21T00:36:14-04:00

Wholly crap! That officer carried that on way too long because he didn't want to admit he was in the wrong!

Response by LCpl Alex Johnson made Aug 21 at 2015 12:38 AM

2015-08-21T00:38:59-04:00

Stop wasting my time.

Response by PFC Justin Matney made Aug 21 at 2015 1:04 AM

2015-08-21T01:04:53-04:00

There was NO reason for pushing the issue, you were not being detained. This is another want to be getting my 15 seconds of fame sorry ass poor me troops that make me want to puke. Quit being a cry baby about your handicap status, fellow troops cant even WALK around a car to film anything. Your a piece of shit that I would have fragged in the showers if I had too serve with your sorry ass!

Response by SPC M F made Aug 21 at 2015 3:41 AM

2015-08-21T03:41:45-04:00

I'm sorry, the veteran was acting like a child. Maybe he is on some kind of medication? Blown up how many times? Hmmmmmm

Response by SGT Christina Harding made Aug 21 at 2015 5:55 AM

2015-08-21T05:55:55-04:00

This video just pissed me off on so many levels. This officer seems to have something against vets.

Response by PO2 Peter Klein made Aug 21 at 2015 8:54 AM

2015-08-21T08:54:48-04:00

Vet over reacted.
Cop way out of line. If he suspected the vet was not entitle to the handicap placard, all he had to do was ask, civilly, for verification that it was legit.
These placards are abused regularly. The is a hiking area in LA with limited parking. Many of the hikers would borrow placards from friends and family so that they could get a good parking place close to the trail head. You want to hike three miles but you are too lazy to park wherever there is an open space? LA police and Calif. DMV cited many over several weekends.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2015 9:22 AM

2015-08-21T09:22:36-04:00

Problem is everyone gets a sticker. So the system does not help non ambulatory disability people. People that have ptsd, tinnitus and many, many disabilities. Your mobile but you just want that sticker. We all know who I'm talking about, we all know that someone. Many of you are that someone I am talking about. Because you're a disabled vet isn't a reason to go try to seek out the sticker to get disabled parking. The system is being abused and those of you that are crying are the ones abusing it... Now before you start yelling at me. Think before you post!! If you are not mobile I'm not referring to you, if you can't walk 10 feet without taking a rest. I'm not talking about you. You know who I'm talking about and these are the people that abused and ruined the system. The eight year old child that needs a spot and his mom needs to unload him and his wheelchair. The guy in this video seems like he could walk extra 20 feet to give up the spot for that boy. You dont need to have a phd to see who needs that spot. They give those placards to anyone that wants them . If you're obese because you can't control what you put in your face they give you a sticker. But you will walk all three hundred thousand square feet of the wholesale store. -Drop mic end of rant!

Response by Cpl Eric Plater made Aug 21 at 2015 9:37 AM

2015-08-21T09:37:03-04:00

The officer probably washed out in basic! Got hired through affirmative action, now he is boss hog !!

Response by Cpl Chris Hebenstreit made Aug 21 at 2015 9:56 AM

2015-08-21T09:56:28-04:00

This officer deserves to be terminated. Not only did he harass the individual, but he is ultra confrontational. There was NO reason he should have been stalking toward the veteran. He purposefully was reengaging, hostile, and attempting to intimidate. In all honesty, when the officer attacked him, I would have deemed it necessary for self-defense and leveled the officer. Then called 9-11 for him.

Response by SSG Harvey (Steff) Steffensen made Aug 21 at 2015 11:32 AM

2015-08-21T11:32:25-04:00

I think that the cop dug a hole for himself he was in so deep he couldn't get out. Of course he was wrong and when the 2nd officer showed up he could of bowed out. but by then he was committed and could not let go

Response by Cpl Clinton Scott made Aug 21 at 2015 11:52 AM

2015-08-21T11:52:56-04:00

It would hurt the cop pride just to say sorry I was wrong

Response by CPL Stormi Miller made Aug 21 at 2015 2:49 PM

2015-08-21T14:49:47-04:00

If the officer wanted to check if the disability placard was the subjects, they are registerd. Beyond that, he should have stood down. He also shouldn't have been leaning his fat gut on the guy's car because his buttons could scratch the paint job. Between that and breaking the phone, he should have to pay damages to the subject.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 21 at 2015 3:56 PM

2015-08-21T15:56:37-04:00

Be the better man. If you don't need the privilege of the space then don't take it. You say you can't walk far but then you walk all over the parking lot arguing - and looking stupid.

Response by SPC Patrick McKeon made Aug 21 at 2015 5:06 PM

2015-08-21T17:06:13-04:00

That officer should be fired immediately and then arrested for assault and battery and given the maximum sentence for it.

Response by SPC Jackson Stevens made Aug 21 at 2015 5:35 PM

2015-08-21T17:35:13-04:00

Officer Wilson needs to further training and demoted. His compound mistakes are not even acceptable for a rookie cop, and he obviously is not a rookie.

Response by CSM Deora Johnson made Aug 21 at 2015 5:59 PM

2015-08-21T17:59:09-04:00

Though both could have handled it better, the officer was completely wrong. Like it or not, if he has a valid plaque then he's got the right to park there. Its not something open to outside interpretation.

pq

Response by SFC Christopher Dunlap made Aug 21 at 2015 10:02 PM

2015-08-21T22:02:31-04:00

Regardless of how unprofessional the police officer was, this so called "Combat Veteran" made the situation worse and refused to shut his mouth. He did not act like a professional Soldier. I have a DV Tag and rarely use it. If I had been challenged by this officer I would have simply taken down his name and badge number and reported him to his supervisor. No need to make an ass of yourself in public.

Response by SPC Sami Rozwalka made Aug 21 at 2015 11:55 PM

2015-08-21T23:55:49-04:00

This is just disappointing!!

Response by SPC Bryan Kovar made Aug 22 at 2015 1:05 AM

2015-08-22T01:05:55-04:00

That fat a** cop was just being a bully, because he was bullied all his life. This cop has issues and should not be able to have a badge. I've been deployed5 times to combat zones. I've got a disabled placard for my incurable lung disease do to the scrap I breathed in Kuwait , Bosnia and Iraq. So I would do the same as that DV.

Response by SSG Jesus Sijalbo made Aug 22 at 2015 1:46 AM

2015-08-22T01:46:43-04:00

Heres my two cents, this could have gotten worse and really bad for someone. Escalation of Force! Yes, props for my fellow vet. There are Veteran Haters Out There and Lots of Combat Veteran who has lots more screws loose in head and might not able to control their emotion as well. Crazy times, Crazy World. Just Saying! God Bless us all.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2015 2:05 AM

2015-08-22T02:05:28-04:00

I have seen the video. The veteran is absolutely right. The vehicle is conformed according to the law. Everything is legal. That should be the extend of the cop's power. What is next? Is he going to sit by the parking space trying to determine who is disable enough to use the space? Cops are not doctors, they don't get to decide on any body's disability

Response by SSgt Jay Reece made Aug 22 at 2015 6:10 AM

2015-08-22T06:10:52-04:00

I'm rated at 100% disabled and no one would be able to tell other than those who know me or my doctors. One of them offered to write a note for a handicap placard however I felt I didn't need it, there are times that I wish I had it but I know there are people like this policeman. There are issues more important than to police to monitor handicap placards. The officer is definitely in the wrong here no and's, it's or but's about it. The policeman is trying to justify his actions by saying he has screws in his knee, I don't know why, I could not care less. His actions and attempt to use that as justification of his actions are a crime against humanity.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2015 7:43 AM

2015-08-22T07:43:48-04:00

Yes...i am an infantry veteran ..and Isaiahs video records exactly what the officer , continued approaching and harrassing him..because the officer was plainly wrong....if we do LITTLE MOVEMENTS AT ALL, it is as much dis respectfull as officers believe , ITS MORE disrespectful that a SUPPOSEDLY POLICE OFFICER would disrespect a decorated veteran...NOT....wheres the respect...

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2015 8:21 AM

2015-08-22T08:21:48-04:00

In light of the fact that there were only two designated handicap spots, one might feel the officer's passionate concern for those unable to walk might've compelled him to park further away from the front door.

Response by SSgt Rod Miller made Aug 22 at 2015 10:18 AM

2015-08-22T10:18:47-04:00

I would like to know the final outcome did he get his phone replaced? The cop was totally in the wrong

Response by SPC Claudia Marquez made Aug 22 at 2015 1:19 PM

2015-08-22T13:19:26-04:00

What I saw was a dwb (driving whIle black.) Yes, cops of color do it too. My bf had that happen to him by a Latino cop, and a black friend of mine has had that happen on more occasions than he cares to count. It's a classic case of a police officer trying to meet his quota so he found some guy, who is black, parked in a handicap spot. What they do is they run the plates for EVERYTHING, not just handicap but for suspended license anything they can nab you for so they can either a) write you a ticket or b) bring you in.

I appreciate officers who try and help and contribute to their community, but chances are really high that this officer's superior is ordering them to write as many tickets as they can in a time frame. (Which is why it's such a huge problem in NY, where black youths walking with sagging pants get pulled over.)

Officers who don't go with the policy, aka refusing to write tickets for no reason, get punished plain and simple. I wish that these two could have handled it better. The officer, rather than being the aggressor, and the veteran just trying to be compliant. He says it was Sunday morning so not a lot of bad things can happen for the morning to turn sour. I'm not saying it's not possible, I'm saying that it's rare. Then again, persons with PTSD rarely act nonaggressive... it's a difficult situation all around and I really wish we'd fund the police enough to where they don't have to use tickets to justify themselves....

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 22 at 2015 3:40 PM

2015-08-22T15:40:32-04:00

This happens moe then we know. The Police need to be trained to understand who has those privileges

Response by MAJ Dallas Hewett made Aug 22 at 2015 7:11 PM

2015-08-22T19:11:12-04:00

There's always two sides to every story, but my first reaction is that I hope they fire the cop.

Response by PV2 Larry Nees made Aug 22 at 2015 9:31 PM

2015-08-22T21:31:53-04:00

I am also a disabled vet. I have a parking permit too. I live in Florida and I'm ashamed of that officer. The man is disabled and a VETERAN ...if anything he deserves our gratitude and our respect. ..

..

Response by PV2 Larry Nees made Aug 22 at 2015 9:42 PM

2015-08-22T21:42:02-04:00

My tank training was at Fort Hood. Texas. 1980 .124th Armor forward support. M88 Hercules. Recovery team. 6yrs. I wish I would have stayed in.

Response by PV2 Larry Nees made Aug 22 at 2015 9:52 PM

2015-08-22T21:52:15-04:00

I spent most of my army life in the M88, but I also had a few months in the M60A1. When we were in Germany for reforger 1980 our tank blew up in the motor pool. The pack was bad. Our CO made us stay with it until it was repaired. It took a month. We were behind our company for over a month the intire time the year we were there.

Response by PO3 Aj Grieves made Aug 22 at 2015 10:17 PM

2015-08-22T22:17:54-04:00

This video disturbs me in so many ways. I try to back my police department every chance I get. I can't do that this time. I admit that when I see a person stepping out their car who doesn't fit my profile of a disabled person I get perturbed. But never would I question that person. This fat sloppy officer (who in my opinion has screws in his knees to hold his weight) was out of line. My brother in arms (if the story checks) sacrificed in a way that Wilson would never know. It has always baffled my mind as to why a police officer can shoot and kill a veteran without repercussion, yet a veteran can stair down the barrel and take the shot without vindication from an officer. I understand my mans anger. The state of Florida owes him a new phone....

Response by PO2 Harold McElwrath made Aug 22 at 2015 11:55 PM

2015-08-22T23:55:30-04:00

Fire his stupid ass !!

Response by CPL Blaine Rideout made Aug 23 at 2015 1:23 AM

2015-08-23T01:23:05-04:00

The police officer should be disciplined for this outrageous act of stupidity

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2015 2:15 AM

2015-08-23T02:15:03-04:00

The 1st cop was ENTIRELY in the wrong, especially when became physical and knocked the phone out of the gentleman's hand. What a terrible way to treat a physically disabled veteran!!! I hope he gets his tubby ass kicked out of that particular law enforcement agency!!!

Response by SSgt Renee Lucas made Aug 23 at 2015 4:43 AM

2015-08-23T04:43:33-04:00

Being a veteran isn't really here or there; being decent to the people you meet shouldn't be reserved for us/them. As someone with an invisible illness, what this cop did does disgust me though.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2015 4:55 AM

2015-08-23T04:55:34-04:00

i respect all veterans no matter what, but what the hell is this guy doing? ridiculous

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2015 11:45 AM

2015-08-23T11:45:29-04:00

Was he breaking the law by parking in that spot? NO, the police officer should be retrain currently he is a U at that station.

Response by Sgt Lawrence Patrick made Aug 23 at 2015 12:08 PM

2015-08-23T12:08:59-04:00

They need to nail his ass to the wall. Isiah has more restraint than I have I would have beat his brains in had he assaulted me. I have sever anger issues these days and must remain medicated. Someone putting there hands on me or my possessions just infuriates me like nothing else.

Response by A1C Michael Gersley made Aug 23 at 2015 1:34 PM

2015-08-23T13:34:30-04:00

What He gets paid days off ? wtf.

Response by PO1 Jeffery Lee made Aug 23 at 2015 1:39 PM

2015-08-23T13:39:51-04:00

They are both wrong, but there are a lot of arm chair quaterbacks on here...

Response by SPC Steve Spofford Ii made Aug 23 at 2015 1:43 PM

2015-08-23T13:43:41-04:00

I have a completely different take on this. As a veteran I was assigned to a military police unit when I got out I decided to try to become a state highway patrol officer I was not selected not because I did not pass the PT test not because I did not pass the entrance test not because I wasn't put in the hiring pool but more likely because politics want police forces to choose people with a college education and a minority in their background if police forces around the country continue to hire people based on things other than whether they qualify and have experience then you will continue to get a lower quality officer who may or may not be able to control their emotions and a standard that is satisfactory with and LEO this is a prime example of that situation . Here's an officer who by physical standards should not be out there in the field he is not in shape and obviously by the way he conducted himself did not pass the proficiency and professionalism that he should have learned in the Academy

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2015 5:19 PM

2015-08-23T17:19:22-04:00

Officer Wilson is completely out of line. A true embarrassment to police everywhere.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2015 5:42 PM

2015-08-23T17:42:20-04:00

Bad on the Cop for picking that battle.. However, veterans shouldn't be acting like this either.

Response by PO3 David Persons made Aug 23 at 2015 7:27 PM

2015-08-23T19:27:05-04:00

Assaulting a disabled veteran on camera. Not only is this officer a disgrace to law enforcement, he is also one arrogant piece of work. Someone needs to charge this loser for assault under color of authority.

This would have been bad enough if had been just Joe or Jane Civilian, but to assault someone disabled in country in the service is beyond the pale. Officer G. Wilson needs to retire and guard the Wal Mart at night or something. What a disrespectful jerk.

Response by Sgt Robert Hickey made Aug 23 at 2015 7:55 PM

2015-08-23T19:55:43-04:00

I am a Cop and a Disabled Veteran and have run into this situation before. The Cop is allowed to ask for license and registration, once its proven he is the registered owner of the car the Cop should simply say "thanks for your cooperation, have a nice day". I do enforce Handicap spots and you cannot always tell who is handicapped, sometimes people abuse another persons parking priveleges, but most times its legit. Definately could have been handled better. As for the Veterans response, how do we know he doesn't have anger issues from his service ? Hell, i do, and i do my best to hide it. A Disabled person, let alone a Disabled Veteran , deserves more understanding and respect, PERIOD.

Response by PFC Tuan Trang made Aug 23 at 2015 8:46 PM

2015-08-23T20:46:22-04:00

Is too far, The police officer is either having too much free time or no experience, I work as security and i seen military personnel with disable plaque and regular army plate, i still doesn't bother them.

Response by SSG Leo Bell made Aug 23 at 2015 8:59 PM

2015-08-23T20:59:49-04:00

This cop was totally wrong for what he did. I have the handi cap plates on my car and I can walk also. Most vets are to proud to use there canes of other devices to get around and they still do everything under there own power. I would of had some choice words for officer Wilson.

Response by SSG James Steele made Aug 23 at 2015 9:12 PM

2015-08-23T21:12:37-04:00

I believe the CSM's comment that James "kind of " played the victim here, but all in all he is spot on. People are disabled for many reasons, and they don't just hand out disabled placards like they are candy. You have to PROVE you are disabled. But it is still none of the police officers business whether he is or ISN'T....James had a valid placard and the police officer had NO business judging whether he was OR wasn't disabled. It is NOT his job to determine disabilities, so he was WAAAAY out of line and wrong here....he was just being a prick for no reason whatsoever!

Response by SCPO Keith Brady made Aug 23 at 2015 9:13 PM

2015-08-23T21:13:32-04:00

I watched the same thing at Walmart the other day. An individual perfectly capable of walking from General parking unnecessarily parked in a handicapped parking spot, while an elderly woman with braces on both legs couldn't get out of her car. Apparently, they are either giving handicapped placards out to anybody these days, or people are taking advantage of a family member's disability. I'm a veteran too, but that doesn't make you automatically qualified. As a matter fact, a military member (or veteran) is supposed to possess a set of core values that should prevent him/her from abusing a system designed to help those people who truly need special provisions. All I saw in the video was someone antagonizing a police officer trying to do the right thing, whether it's policy of not.

Response by SSG James Steele made Aug 23 at 2015 9:19 PM

2015-08-23T21:19:29-04:00

This police officer should have a placard of his own, because in his current shape he could NEVER chase down a suspect in his condition. It is disgusting that he is in the shape he is in and even worse he represents the citizens of his city....he needs to stay out of the doughnut shops and spend more time at the gym. SHAME on the police departments leadership for allowing their officers to be in this shape. About the only thing this guy would be good at is sitting at a desk answering the phone......he is USELESS out on patrol!

Response by SPC David Young made Aug 23 at 2015 9:26 PM

2015-08-23T21:26:05-04:00

It was about 8 or 9 years ago but I got harassed like this by a local Police Officer once. He wanted to know why I had "those type of tags" (Disabled Veteran) on my truck because I didn't look disabled to him. I didn't lose my temper, just said that it was a personal matter and that I'd rather not discuss it. There was another Officer with him. He encouraged his partner to back off and address why I was pulled over in the first place, which was something minor. I was let off with a warning and sent on my way but not before the one Officer jabbed one more time saying, "I still don't think you have any business putting that type of plate on this truck."
I just replied that I wasn't his decision wished both of them a pleasant evening.

Response by Cpl Ben Kent made Aug 23 at 2015 10:32 PM

2015-08-23T22:32:51-04:00

I've been there before. I hate using my placard, which I obtained legally, because some days I do feel like people look at me and say you're not disabled. I walk with a cane and am barely 31. Most times I don't use my placards, but when the option is the north 40 of Walmart parking lot, knowing I have to walk around a huge store, I know that a couple hundred yards would definitely save me from pain and agony. I don't agree with yelling back and forth with the Leo, but I can understand his frustration...

Response by SPC Michael Trotman made Aug 24 at 2015 12:43 AM

2015-08-24T00:43:27-04:00

I was a homeless disabled veteran that used to panhandle to get by after the VA stopped my benefits... Riviera Beach Police were always nasty to me
... So we're Lantana and Boynton Beach..... They used to make up shit and apply false charges.. A news station even ran an exclusive on me in Boynton... Here's the worst part... the VA should have never even stopped my benefits... I've got them now... But they are taking their sweet time to come with my backpay appeal

Response by Cpl Andrew Tucker made Aug 24 at 2015 2:15 AM

2015-08-24T02:15:19-04:00

Ok, so a lot of vets on here have said they have the placard and/or tags on their plates. What is the process to get one or both? I'm 70% TBI/PTS, 20% radiculopathy in all extremities, 20% for a meniscus tear in both knees, 20% for a protruded lower lumbar disc, and about 10 other 10% items (hearing loss, tinnitus, nerve damage, etc etc) for a grand spanking total of 90%. If you take out the TBI/PTS I'd still be 90% by VA math on just the "physical" aspects of my SCD.

Response by CPT Karen Nichols McAbee made Aug 24 at 2015 2:45 AM

2015-08-24T02:45:07-04:00

I've had handicapped hang tags off and on over the years - several orthopedic issues - bilateral knee replacements in my early 40s, screws in my foot, etc. In every case, my surgeon instructed me to not walk more than x feet at a time or longer than x times per day. However, because I've battled these issues for years, I've also worked very hard to not be the victim and to 99% of the world, you'd never know I'm disabled. There are many times when I only have so many steps a day in me before the pain completely sidelines me. I've been questioned by people for "not looking handicapped enough" - my usual response is something to the effect of how tough it must be to carry around all that judgement or that I've never met anyone with X-ray vision before - oh wait, if you did you could see my prosthetics. Yes, usually it's a smartass response but the condescending judgemental attitudes of idiots wear you out. Just because you can walk, doesn't mean you aren't in pain - most vets I know are too proud and too strong to let anyone else see that pain. I know I am.

Response by SSG William Thompson made Aug 24 at 2015 3:59 AM

2015-08-24T03:59:20-04:00

Fire that Fat Ass!

Response by SPC Michael Watkins made Aug 24 at 2015 4:27 AM

2015-08-24T04:27:54-04:00

The police officer wilson should be fired and not ever be hired by any other law enforcement agencies again.

Response by MAJ Bruce Knapp made Aug 24 at 2015 8:19 AM

2015-08-24T08:19:30-04:00

I agree - this should have been handled differently by both sides. Fortunately, my experience has shown that police and veterans have a fairly good relationship.

Response by SPC Thomas Geiger made Aug 24 at 2015 2:24 PM

2015-08-24T14:24:31-04:00

even if you have a disability there are many kinds, usually disabled parking spaces are for those that can't walk, so what I'm saying is if your disabled, but can walk, park in a different spot so someone handicapping can park there please.

Response by SGT Frank Leonardo made Aug 25 at 2015 2:32 AM

2015-08-25T02:32:32-04:00

WOW watched the whole video, The police officer did not have to go after that man the way he did and give him a hard time over the whole situation

Response by TSgt Sylvia Powell made Aug 25 at 2015 9:57 AM

2015-08-25T09:57:05-04:00

Nobody's business! Just because you don't look disabled does not mean you are not. The police officer is in the wrong.

Response by CPL Timothy Lane made Aug 25 at 2015 1:36 PM

2015-08-25T13:36:55-04:00

Me. Obvious says the cop unprofessional and the depart probably has more. Vet is a true hero and handled himself appropriately. For bless

Response by MSgt Chuck H made Aug 25 at 2015 1:40 PM

2015-08-25T13:40:45-04:00

Paid

Response by PO2 Steven McGuire made Aug 25 at 2015 1:47 PM

2015-08-25T13:47:48-04:00

I am proud of the officer for trying to enforce against disabled parking space violateters. But he went about it completely wrong. Al he needs to to was ask to verify the plackard. It's gout his name and other identifying info on it. I don't think many would refuse as we all know people misuse family members plackard a all the time. It's a problem all of use with disabilities deal with daily.

Oh and bravo Zulu to the veteran for parking in the lines. Being in a wheelchair the biggest issue I face is idiots who think that space between spots is a part of their parking spot.

Response by PO2 Tommy Crews made Aug 25 at 2015 2:09 PM

2015-08-25T14:09:10-04:00

I am a disabled vet and was a DoD police officer until last year when I had to stop due to medical reasons. I have never nor would ever judge someone's disability by how they look. I have checked placards to verify they were not being misused but this officer was way out of line.

Response by PO1 Glenn Boucher made Aug 25 at 2015 2:19 PM

2015-08-25T14:19:24-04:00

If you have a legitimate Handicap parking license plate or placard then what is the issue? I'm not a doctor, I'm not psychic so I can in no way say that you are or are not entitled to use a handicapped parking spot.
I know that my mom has a handicap placard and on days she is feeling good, she won't use the handicapped spot, but on those days that she isn't feeling great or the weather is terrible, i.e., heavy rain, snow, then she uses the handicapped spot as is her right to do so.
And there are lots of handicapped people who don't use the spots for their own reasons. And you have lots of young people using the placard in their parents car.
Unless you know 100% for certain that someone is illegally using a handicapped placard then its not your place to correct that.

Response by SGT Glenn E Moody made Aug 25 at 2015 10:28 PM

2015-08-25T22:28:02-04:00

that's bullshit that cop was wrong i have a plack card my self you can't see my injury's they are in my neck knees low back i don't look disabled but i am permanently. so i will have it for the rest of my life. it is not Military related but my knees might be from being so hard on them in the Infantry but i was in a auto accident that almost killed me. had to be Med flight away from the scene three ribs fratchured liver splien ear head 7 disked in my neck & back it took me 5 years to walk again. now i am in pain every day. so if someone has that card they can park in the spots. but if i see someone that is worse off than me ill find a another spot. but that dosen't make it rite for any cop to tell me to move. ill do that on my own. that cop should be fired and buy Isiah James a new phone out of his own pocket to replace the one he slaped out of his hand.

Response by Cpl J Leslie made Aug 26 at 2015 1:17 AM

2015-08-26T01:17:36-04:00

Fire this officer! He should've called the Sheriffs Dept. just another case of officers taking up for another POS officer. So question is, why can't this officer be charged for Criminal Damage, Assault and Criminal Damage? Is he above the law?

Response by MAJ Jeff Wolff made Aug 26 at 2015 7:42 AM

2015-08-26T07:42:37-04:00

I doubt this would have happened in Texas. I have DV plates on my vehicles as well as a placard in case I need to park in federal facilities ie VA and post office. Thankfully, I do not live in such a dicked up state as Florida.

Response by SFC Edward Sneed made Aug 26 at 2015 8:35 AM

2015-08-26T08:35:46-04:00

Driving while black! Will always happen, regardless.

Response by SFC Edward Sneed made Aug 26 at 2015 8:38 AM

2015-08-26T08:38:24-04:00

I have a disabled placard and ID card. Let them harrass me!

Response by SFC Edward Sneed made Aug 26 at 2015 8:41 AM

2015-08-26T08:41:17-04:00

OMG! It's Florida too. Wouldn't expect any less, from down there.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2015 9:08 AM

2015-08-26T09:08:36-04:00

If the veteran displayed the correct placard/documentation and was in compliance with the law, the officer was way out of line. Police officers are supposed to enforce laws, NOT interpret laws on how they think they should be.

Response by PFC Joseph Levi made Aug 26 at 2015 10:31 AM

2015-08-26T10:31:05-04:00

It is actually against the law for ANYBODY to question your disability!!

Response by LTC Hillary Luton made Aug 26 at 2015 1:11 PM

2015-08-26T13:11:12-04:00

Not all disabled individuals "look" disabled at first glance. My best friend has 80% disability and uses a handicap placard, but when we were running around town last week, she would get out of the car and at first glance, she may not appear disabled; however, she walks in excruciating pain from her ankles all of the time. She may not limp, because she is proud, but she may only be able to go short distances before she needs to take a break. The placard is justified despite how it may look to a bye-passer who does not know the whole situation. Don't judge a book by its cover, and yes, the police officer was in the wrong here; however, the vet could have handled this better too. As the second officer pointed out, they both needed to bring it down a level to try to resolve the situation. I couldn't help but feel that the first officer had a grudge against military in a way because of his continued comments about "how does that make you better than any other American?" I think he needs to go visit a VA hospital and get real understanding of what disabled is.

Response by PO3 Steven Sherrill made Aug 26 at 2015 1:54 PM

2015-08-26T13:54:56-04:00

I once saw a Trans Am parked in a handicapped space. I thought "how can someone who is handicapped drive a car like that?" I felt like a piece of shit when I saw the person come out of the store missing the lower half of his leg. I didn't say anything about it, I kept my thoughts to myself.

In this case, the cop is wrong. It doesn't matter what his opinion of his placard is, the placard was issued, he was not doing anything wrong until Sergeant dipshit accosted him for parking. It is no different than pulling into a parking space and having a cop say you need to move because I don't want you parking there.

Riviera Beach is not the best place. It is one of the more run down areas in the Palm Beach area. It is a high crime area. I understand police officers being on edge, but this was totally uncalled for. When the second officer arrives, it seems the situation de-escalates to a degree. I feel bad for the second officer arriving on scene because he arrives to deal with the aftermath of two individuals losing their temper. One of them being his peer, the other being a citizen who has broken no law.

Response by CPL(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2015 2:32 PM

2015-08-26T14:32:15-04:00

Assault. This cop needs prison time. He never served. He needs to cry like a little school girl each night as he grabs his ankles in jail. The cop was wrong. The vet could have dealt with this better.

Response by Sgt Michael Durkin made Aug 26 at 2015 3:24 PM

2015-08-26T15:24:00-04:00

The officer was in the wrong, simple as that. Like Isiah said, "run the plates." That is exactly what should have been done, and then the interaction should have ended with a, "thank you and have a nice day." I was blown up 3 times in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. I do not have a handicap placard, but sometimes I wish I did! Not all wounds are visible or obvious.

Response by SFC Kevin Carlisle made Aug 26 at 2015 7:27 PM

2015-08-26T19:27:07-04:00

Why did officer park where he parked? Just because it is not a handicap parking spot it is right there by the front door. The little old lady could park where he parked, the person that can't walk very far could have parked there. This is the argument the officer presented. Disabled is disabled! Check the placard and go on about your day. Almost sounds like handicap tag envy. He needs one because he has pins in his leg too. Well apply and see what happens. The officer needs to fine a new job like people greeter at Walmart.

Response by SPC Joseph Fisher made Aug 26 at 2015 8:23 PM

2015-08-26T20:23:30-04:00

What a poor excuse for a police officer. The only tours hes ever been on was those the Krispy Cream...

Response by SSG Robert Nichols made Aug 26 at 2015 9:38 PM

2015-08-26T21:38:39-04:00

A real douche

Response by CPO Lauren Farrow made Aug 26 at 2015 9:58 PM

2015-08-26T21:58:31-04:00

Pretty much by definition, if you serve 10 years in the Infantry, there's a handicap sticker/placard in your future.

Response by LCpl Aaron Polchowski made Aug 26 at 2015 10:39 PM

2015-08-26T22:39:35-04:00

You ever find shit on your shoe without realizing where you stepped in it? This Officer Wilson should be ashamed of himself.

Response by SSG Sean Knudsen made Aug 26 at 2015 11:02 PM

2015-08-26T23:02:31-04:00

Here's the lesson of the day: respect.

Response by CPL Steve Connolly made Aug 27 at 2015 12:21 AM

2015-08-27T00:21:59-04:00

Wow! Just Wow.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 4 at 2015 11:54 AM

2015-09-04T11:54:53-04:00

I would have said something to the Veteran, but would have definitely done it differently.

I'm sure it's similar in other States, but in Kansas, if you are assigned a Handicap Placard or Plate, you are also issued a Card to keep with your Driver's License. Had the Veteran provided that, I'd have been done. "Have a good day, sir." and done.

Response by SGM Gregory Hoppe made Sep 7 at 2015 7:02 PM

2015-09-07T19:02:42-04:00

The 5oz badge has attracted a ton of stupidity by the Sgt.

Response by SPC Joseph F Dolloff made Sep 23 at 2015 8:15 AM

2015-09-23T08:15:32-04:00

This officer was totally unprofessional, looks out of shape and like crap in uniform, and would be out of a job, if he worked for me! Maybe he should have joined the MP's, and learned some respect, and tact?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 27 at 2015 4:45 PM

2015-10-27T16:45:48-04:00

yeah the officer is clearly wrong for doing this .

Response by Cpl Terry Fowler made Oct 30 at 2015 9:51 AM

2015-10-30T09:51:47-04:00

They should have fired this officer

Response by SPC William Del Valle made Nov 6 at 2015 12:18 AM

2015-11-06T00:18:17-05:00

I really don’t see him trying to be the victim at all! I am also a disable veteran and I use a cane. When it comes to the parking, which is “first come, first serve (park). There is no law that says that you have to let people with Wheelchairs Park before you, that is more about being courteous. What was the veteran suppose to do wait, to see if anyone with a wheelchair shows up? I don’t think so. I believe that the officer was in the wrong and it seems that he racially profiled the veteran. Since there isn’t a picture and the veteran didn’t show himself on camera, it’s kind of hard to tell what he looked like. Since the veteran said he did ten years and the average male in the service is 19 years old, I would say he is about 29 or so. Therefore, more than likely looks young and as sad as it may be this Officer saw a young black man with a nice ride pulling into a handicap parking; and yes, you are problem thinking, that’s not it because the officer was also black. It doesn’t matter if the officer is, or was black, even if he was pink with orange polka dots when it comes to cops they are trained way different from military. Yes, a lot of law enforcement is former military but civilian cops with no military training have a different mindset. I say this one because I come from a family of cops, and all of them are or was NYPD. As a kid I would love to hear all the stories from them and they would give me tips about how to be safe. One of the tips would be to put your inside lights on, so that the officer can see you and whoever is with you. This helps the officer to see you and it sends a sign that you are not a threat and ensures his safety as well. Another tip was to shut off you engine, with it off the officer will not assume that you want to just take off (I only shut off my car if I know I am in a safe place like city streets).

One of the differences from military and cops (civilians, non-military), in combat everyone and anyone could be a threat even small children; cops don’t thing that way, so small children isn’t on the list of people that are feared. When it comes to the police it’s like a brotherhood and most of the time they have each other’s back just like us veterans! I think when it comes down to it the officer was in the wrong and I foresee him (officer) getting some type of negative action. As for my fellow veteran I say “Drink water and Drive On” and after 911 call 411 LOL!!! (Florida inside joke). And remember if you don’t take anything away from this just think of Morgan and Morgan “for the people”. a law office

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Aug 19 at 2017 3:15 PM

2017-08-19T15:15:31-04:00

The original post vid link is dead, here is another
https://youtu.be/pM9-x_zBGrc

Cop Harasses Disabled Veteran for No Reason

Disabled vet rips cop who told him he couldn’t park in handicap spot because ‘you can walk’.

Response by SP5 Norman McGill made Aug 19 at 2017 3:50 PM

2017-08-19T15:50:29-04:00

I think the cop is wrong. He has no business asking for a properly marked vehicle to be moved as the law does not issue this permit. It's issued as a result of a doctors recommendation through a county agency which the cop has no jurisdiction with. The cops only concern is with the parking space and improperly marked vehicles.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Nov 4 at 2018 9:37 PM

2018-11-04T21:37:37-05:00

It was an misguided errant interpretation of regulations and laws.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Nov 4 at 2018 9:38 PM

2018-11-04T21:38:40-05:00

VIDEO ACCOUNT TERMINATED ! NOV 4, 2018!

Response by SPC Randell Pendley made Aug 28 at 2019 12:49 PM

2019-08-28T12:49:22-04:00

Just because you can't see someone's disabled doesn't mean their not. I'v got both prosthetic hips, Satica, Spinal Stenosis, Spondylosis and nerve damage. And to look at me you wouldn't think anything's wrong. I even have an excuse to not have to wear seatbelts from the V.A. because I can't sit in the same position to long. Even been Permanently excused from Jury Duty. But as I said you can't tell by just looking at me. So I know what they mean.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made Sep 15 at 2021 6:52 PM

2021-09-15T18:52:47-04:00

if they have a plate or placard you better have something that says it's not