ArcaMax

This explains why cop shops are deploying more rather than fewer unmarked cars - including (as in New Jersey; see here) what are styled "ghost cars" with markings that can hardly be seen unless the cop is literally right next to you (and soon, behindyou) specifically to "catch dangerous drivers who behave in the presence of marked cars," according to State Police Captain Stephen Jones.

But why not take steps to cause drivers to "behave" all the time rather than some of the time? Because it's about money - as much of it as they can mulct.

There are cities and whole counties that are massively dependent on the in-flow of cash generated by traffic fines (i.e., random road taxes). And not just the fines/taxes for "speeding." Having an excuse to pull you over also gives the cop the excuse to "smell marijuana" and - under asset forfeiture laws - literally take your vehicle.

Which is a nice little haul for the cop shop. Or whatever cash you have on your person - if it is "excessive" (not defined) and so considered not just prima facie evidence of but proof that you are a "drug" dealer. Until you prove otherwise. Failing that, there are other options. Windows too tinted. An "obscured" license plate. Not buckled up for safety.

The list is long - and very profitable. And would be much less so - if marked rather than unmarked cars predominated.

Well, why not just send everyone a bill once a year instead? They'd get their money - and we'd get some peace of mind. The roadbound kabuki opera would be done with. We could get where we're going in peace - if at a cost. Keep in mind we're already paying - just pell mell and helter skelter rather than clean and neat.

We're supposed to be a first (well, maybe a second) world country... not a third world banana republic. It is a characteristic of third (and not first and second) world countries that extortion is performed randomly, at the loosey goosy discretion of costumed cretins.

First and second world countries fleece the populace in a more ordered, systematic and coherent manner. So, how about it? Send us a bill - and spare us the prattle about "safety." Please.

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www.ericpetersautos.com or EPeters952@aol.com for comments.