NPR explores the differing police tactics on college campuses amidst ongoing protests, with various approaches and lessons learned from past confrontations with protesters.
Key Points
Police tactics vary on different campuses based on location and specific situations
Law enforcement generally waits for the universities to request their presence before intervening
Tactics range from peaceful arrest of protesters to more aggressive measures in case of conflicts
Police actions today are more planned and disciplined compared to chaotic situations in the past
Protesters are usually given warnings and opportunities to leave before force is used
Pros
Police tactics have evolved to be more planned and disciplined compared to past confrontations
Lessons from previous protests have led to more careful treatment of protesters by law enforcement
Presence of more officers on scene is viewed as safer for both law enforcement and protesters
Cons
Reports of violence and injuries during police intervention in some instances
Instances of police losing their cool and being more willing to engage in the fray