Very Tough. Until Mike Tyson Walks In...

There is something particularly revolting about a man in uniform displaying his physical authority against a young woman. The badge, the backup, the equipment - and somehow, we still end up with a cheerleader on the ground. What a magnificent advertisement for keeping the public safe.

The footage reportedly shows Arizona State University cheerleader Eryn Bonner being shoved down and later restrained against a bicycle during a July encounter with Tempe police. Police allege she interfered with an arrest and punched an officer. Those allegations matter and should be examined. So should the force used against her. One does not conveniently cancel out the other.

But apparently, we are supposed to see a uniform and immediately switch off every functioning brain cell. “She should have stayed back.” Yes, perhaps she should have. That still leaves the rather large question of whether a trained police officer handled the situation with the restraint we ought to expect from someone entrusted with that much power.

Training should mean something beyond learning how to put someone on the pavement. Judgement. Composure. The ability to manage a chaotic situation without making it considerably uglier. Otherwise, what exactly are we paying for? A short temper with a pension?

Which brings me to Mike Tyson. Imagine this officer being thrust in for two rounds of supervised boxing with him. Suddenly, I suspect, the enthusiasm for physical confrontation might evaporate. There would be a touching new appreciation for negotiation, personal space and resolving differences through calm discussion. Possibly a previously undisclosed hamstring injury.

Funny how appealing restraint becomes when the other person can flatten you.

My disgust is directed at the apparent force in this encounter, and I want it properly scrutinised. Bonner’s lawyer has called the force excessive; Tempe police say the incident is under administrative review. That review needs to produce a credible explanation and meaningful consequences if misconduct is established.

I am tired of “a difficult job” being offered as though it ends the conversation. Plenty of people do difficult jobs. Nurses deal with frightened and aggressive patients. Teachers manage volatile classrooms. Carers cope with distress, confusion and unpredictable behaviour. We still expect them to control themselves.

Police should face that expectation too, especially given the authority they carry. The public should be able to question an officer’s conduct without being accused of wanting criminals to run the streets. Demanding professional policing is a fairly modest request.

A badge ought to come with enough accountability to make its wearer think carefully before using force. If this officer crossed the line, he should have to answer for it without the uniform cushioning the landing.

And if he considers that unfair, perhaps he could explain his position to Mike Tyson. From a sensible distance, naturally. Suddenly, distance might seem very important.

She Matters Podcast | Sherele Moody