This is a trending video, showing officer Derek Middendorf attacking a 68 year old man with dementia.
It is within Middendorf’s rights to protect himself, but it is unclear exactly what he was protecting himself from. The old man who was walking toward him? There weren’t any hints of aggression before the officer attacks with a kick, followed by a half dozen punches while sitting on top of the old man’s chest.
The police serve a vital role in our communities, but at times they forget who they’re here to protect. Remember, we write their paychecks.
Don’t let behavior like this go unnoticed. Police should be respected, but never feared.
