Police Reform (6/10): “More Civilian Oversight”

Self-Monitoring Does Not Work We have learned by sad experience that self-monitoring/regulating does not work.  It never has. There is too much actual or perceived bias and conflicts of interest inherent in the process.  Accordingly, almost every profession is monitored and regulated by an independent review board. This includes: doctors, nurses, dentists, veterinarians, lawyers, prosecutor, … Continue reading Police Reform (6/10): “More Civilian Oversight” →

Experiment in Socialism

The story is told of a wise and experienced political science professor at a local university. When his class discussed socialism the young college students became enamored with the concept. On the surface socialism sounds wonderful.  It seeks to establish equality. It eliminates the evils of capitalism where the rich get richer and the poor … Continue reading Experiment in Socialism →

Police Reform (5/10): “Shoot to Wound” and “Fire Warning Shots”

Dumb Ideas Advocates of defunding the police are disturbed by the use of deadly force. A plethora of people insist that the police should be trained to “shoot to wound" or "fire warning shots" first.   "Shoot to Wound" -Fantasy versus Reality and Experience The recommendation to "shoot to wound" is based on Hollywood fantasy, … Continue reading Police Reform (5/10): “Shoot to Wound” and “Fire Warning Shots” →

The Greatest Modern Missionary -Joseph “Billy” Johnson of Ghana

Divine miracles abound in missionary work. Divine intervention accompanies the great miracle of conversion. The Lord performs miracles as his servants strive to “bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.” (Moses 1:39) Joseph "Billy" Johnson -- the Great Missionary Joseph William “Billy” Johnson may be the greatest missionary of this dispensation.  He … Continue reading The Greatest Modern Missionary -Joseph “Billy” Johnson of Ghana →

Police Reform (4/10): “More Body Cams”

Body worn cameras aid the police and protect the public.  Every patrol officer should be required to wear a body cam while on duty. In most cases, the video corroborates the officer and incriminates the defendant.  The body cam can also record and deter police misconduct.  Ultimately, body cams keep everybody honest.  “A picture is … Continue reading Police Reform (4/10): “More Body Cams” →

Police Reform (3/10): “Remove the Bad Apples”

The worst thing for the reputation of law enforcement is a dirty, corrupt, or violent officer. A very small percentage of police officers are "bad apples." But "one bad apple can spoil the bunch.” A “bad apple” in law enforcement undermines public support for the police and taints the reputations of good officers. I am … Continue reading Police Reform (3/10): “Remove the Bad Apples” →

"Failed" LDS Missionaries

Some missionaries mistakenly judge the success of their missions based on the number of baptisms.  Our twentieth century prophets who served in Britain had few, if any, convert baptisms.  David O. McKay, Joseph Fielding Smith, and Gordon B. Hinckley were all discouraged and frustrated with their lack of converts. Joseph Fielding Smith remarked that anyone … Continue reading "Failed" LDS Missionaries →

“Bizarre” Religious Attire in Court

Religious Attire in the Courtroom: The General Rules Judges have broad discretion in establishing rules of practice in their own courtrooms.  This power includes standards of personal appearance and attire.  Sometimes, the judge's dress standards must yield to someone’s sincere religious beliefs.  For example, the First Amendment Free Exercise Clause generally requires the judge to … Continue reading “Bizarre” Religious Attire in Court →

Riots and “Reading the Riot Act”

Today, the initially peaceful assemblies in Seattle, Portland, Minneapolis, and Chicago often mutate into violence and looting. At some point the police make an announcement. “This has been declared a riot.  Disperse immediately or you will be arrested.” The crowd has just been “Read the Riot Act.” In 1714, the British Parliament passed the original … Continue reading Riots and “Reading the Riot Act” →