Dick's for Dicks

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Charlotte-Mecklenburg police supervisors offered prizes to officers who wrote the most traffic tickets during an eight-day period over the July Fourth holiday. Five officers from the department's North Division earned $10 gift certificates to Dick's Sporting Goods. "I don't think there is anything inherently evil or bad about rewarding officers for putting in extra effort for a good cause," Major John Diggs (who oversees the division) said.

So, now we know the high priority that some law enforcement agencies place on their job. GIve a guy a ticket for going 45 in a 35, make his day miserable, cost him more on his car insurance and make him write a check -- all for a Dick's gift certificate. It seems unethical to me - because it is.

I thought police were supposed to be above treating their job like a game show? No, they're just people. People with a badge. Otherwise, they're no better than the rest of us. As far as being heroes, well - some of them are, but these guys are just skunks.

Besides, I thought they weren't allowed to take gratuities? That's what the guys on ADAM-12 always used to say.

SUGGESTION: If you want to try to talk your way out of your next traffic ticket, make sure to carry a $25 Dick's Gift Certificate in your car. Out bid the bastards.