What is your opinion on the perceived militarization of civilian police forces?

We have heard the horror stories about no-knock warrants becoming a standard and the negative ramifications of these, such as raids on the wrong house, family pets being slaughtered, and above all, the police agencies not being held accountable for these actions. Also, more police departments are getting MRAPs, and other military equipment every year. What are your thoughts on this subject? Is the militarization of the police necessary?


http://countercurrentnews.com/2014/01/how-police-became-a-standing-army/