Armed in America: Police & Guns

Examine the nation’s rising gun violence with Independent Lens and PBS. Watch new documentary film Peace Officer — followed by a town hall discussion hosted by NPR’s Michel Martin.

Through the Federal 1033 program, Chief Beary acquired a grenade launcher. He explains that the University has never had a live round, and how it fits into the security needs of a state university.

A panel discusses the growing militarization of the US police force and its impact on neighborhoods across America. SWAT team raids have increased over 15,000% since the 1970’s. With tensions growing between the people and the police, the film “Peace Officer” helps to start a conversation about whether police foster peace or create conflict.

Alecia Phonesavanh recounts the story of when a SWAT Team threw a flash bang grenade in through a window, and it landed in the crib of her son, baby Bou Bou. The SWAT Team rushed the baby to the hospital, where he was in a medically induced coma for three weeks. To date Baby Bou Bou has had 14 surgeries.

In the weeks surrounding the riots in Ferguson, Missouri during the summer of 2014, Betty Taylor was running a police recruitment program in St. Louis. She discusses with Michel and audience the emotion and sense of community she witnessed.

In Ferguson, Missouri, unarmed man Michael Brown was shot by a white police officer in 2014. In Seattle 1999, a SWAT team faced anti-globalization protests that turned so sour that it was called the “Battle of Seattle”. Some psychologist say that the weapons the police carry may make them more aggressive towards others.

An armed gunman forced Iris Vickson out of her home at gunpoint, leaving her two year old daughter inside with the gunman. Iris tells the story of the SWAT team that negotiated for over 60 hours to bring Iris’ daughter back to her safely.

Former Sheriff of King County, Washington, Sue Rahr, shares her story of a violent standoff where her team would have greatly benefitted from receiving protective military equipment from the 1033 program.