Black State Senator Claims Racial Profiling by Chicago Police Officer

[NNN0LHI]

http://ap.tbo.com/ap/breaking/MGBCZNDK6BE.html

CHICAGO (AP) - A black state senator said he was the victim of racial profiling when a white officer pulled his car over and waved a gun in his face.

Sen. James Meeks, who is also a minister, said the incident happened Wednesday night when his driver was taking him, his wife and his son home from the 10,000-seat House of Hope Church, where he is pastor.

Meeks said the officer pulled over their vehicle after they passed his police car stopped in the middle of a street. When Meeks got out of the car, the officer allegedly pulled out his gun and repeatedly yelled at Meeks to get back inside his vehicle.

"If this is the way a respected clergyman, the pastor of the largest church in Illinois, a state senator and the chair of the Illinois Black Caucus is treated, I know the average young black person on the street doesn't stand a chance," Meeks said in a statement.

[Dora]

1. I was always taught

When pulled over by a police officer, never ever EVER get out of the car unless asked to do so by said officer.

Not that this justifies anything at all in the above story.

[Lerkfish]

2. probably right for why he was pulled over, but

I'm a white guy and have been ordered back to my car at a traffic stop. I complied immediately, but I imagine if I refused, I might have had a similar situation.

:shrug:

[Southsideirish]

3. A lifelong Chicagoan knows - you stay put - they come to you. Any moves

on your part scares the beejazuz out of them.

[SouthernDem2004]

4. I have done the same thing as that Officer on numerous occasions. /nt

[Swede]

5. As Chris Rock says "Shut the fuck up"

Chris was talking about being in the situation where the cop has all the power and a gun in a black man's face. You can't win. Eviscerate the mother fucker at city hall,on local tv or in the courts,but when the Nazi and you are the only people there and he has you backed in a corner,co-operate.

[Lochloosa]

6. All Correct....Put your hands where the officer can see them

and STAY IN YOUR CAR...don't reach in the glove box for you license. When you are asked for it, then tell the cop where it is and you are going to get it.

[Demonaut]

7. shouldnt have left the car, cops freak out if you get out before

they tell you, I know, I've been screamed at by a cop to get back in my car.