I think it was a terrible idea for Chief Jackson to walk out amongst that angry mob calling for all the officers' deaths. It was very foreseeable that those in a murderous rage might try to reach him. He put himself and his officers in danger when they had to risk their lives and advance into that mob to protect him. That PR apology video spurred the Chief Jacka-- Resign riot last night. It was all over twitter - the apology was not enough. It fed their indignation. Him being so close to people who said they were willing to fight, die, and kill clearly proved too tempting. What if one of those officers who had to get in there was stabbed or shot? We've seen plenty of reports about rioters brandishing, shooting, knives confiscated, attacks on police. They know these people are out of control and committing crimes. Not a single head of LE should go march with them. Arrest them, disperse them, contain them.
Do we know why the cops had to move in? I know you say it was to protect him, but do we know that? I highly doubt I've seen all of the video from that incident, but I didn't see anyone immediately around the Chief that was creating a problem. Slightly behind and to his right. I was trying to figure out what had spurred that on last night but no one had an answer last night. Has more information come out today?
I agree, it wasn't smart for him to do that though. And I'm really not sure what the message is by actually marching with them as well. I would agree that the protesters message has been garbled much of the time but I'm not sure what the messages are from LE either. While I didn't agree with his approach, the only one that had a clear message was Belmar frankly. He came in and said we're here to beat you down so go home. Johnson came in and said I'm here to be your friend and then proceeded to gas his new found friends. I just can't figure out what purpose or what message there was to Jackson actually marching with the protesters.