I'm not implying any such thing. I am pointing out that police are just another way government gets people to follow the law.
Yes, that is their mission in a nutshell. You don't often see people breaking the law in the face of a LEO for a good reason. The question is, are they enforcing laws that you disagree with. If so, take it up with the politicians. The police enforce the laws on the books, not just the ones you agree with.
Really, the criminal justice system is the most intrusive part of any government.
Personally, I feel that the IRS is the most intrusive part of our government. They know how much I make, how much I spend and are more that willing to stick their nose into my financial affairs if they feel the need. I have yet to have a LEO come close to this in my life. But I also tend to follow the law, so there is not need for LEO's to stick their nose in my business.
But too often it feels like they will get a pass, and people then endlessly go on about the far less intrusive government agencies.
I don't know about that. With the advent of cell phone camera's, it seems to me that police are some of the most scrutinized government workers there are any more.
They all deserve scrutiny, and criminal law enforcement deserves the most scrutiny because they are the most intrusive.
Yes they all deserve scrutiny, but you seem to imply that the police deserve more. Yes there are bad cops out there and when caught, should be tried for any crimes or violations that they commit. And if convicted, should be sentenced to the fullest extent of the law. But I also feel the same about ANY one that receives a pay check from the government.
Frankly, some cities have reduced their police budgets with no impact on crime whatsoever.
Name one.