I witnessed an arrest just minutes ago. Three campus officers had taken up strategic position around a rather scruffy looking individual with a backpack. We have had, at least from personal perception, a problem on campus here at the University of Utah with a growing population of homeless taking up residence in the buildings on campus. Obviously, they’re trespassing, although I’m sure many of those doing so think of it differently.

I wasn’t close enough to hear anything but the lead officer telling the man that he was under arrest and to put his hands on his head. (A tip for those who run across an arrest in process – don’t get close. Stand back and let them do their job.) The man was not complying and his body posture was becoming more and more aggressive as the command was reissued. Finally he took a stance which is often used just before a move to violence – head lowered, fists clenched, arms out from his sides – with one of the three officers pulling out and shaking a can of mace or pepper spray in preparation. Then the third officer came in from his flank and bear hugged him from behind.

The other two officers moved in and very carefully took the man down onto the cement walk. I was impressed. They were moving with certainty and forceful action, but they were not abusing their position of authority, nor were they enacting undo force to restrain the individual. From their actions, it was obvious that they did not want to hurt him if they could help it.

With as often as I deplore the unconscionable actions of officers abusing their position of authority, I felt it a sense of duty to also report on something I’ve witnessed personally, as a very well performed and proper action.

Officers, I don’t know who you are, but my hat is off to the three of you for performing your duty well and to the call.

Bravo.