Is it Time to Reconsider Our Approach?

Is it Time to Reconsider Our Approach?
By: Deon Joseph

Considering strategies to counter professional violent rioters, a chapter in one of my favorite books, "Mirror your enemies," suggests that to defeat adversaries, one must adopt their tactics, albeit to a limited and lawful extent.

Today's rioters employ guerrilla tactics, whereas we rely on traditional, predictable methods. A historical example that illustrates this concept is a battle during the Revolutionary War, where American forces initially struggled against the British in a conventional field engagement.

However, by abandoning traditional tactics and adopting a more unorthodox approach, they were able to gain the upper hand. This concept is relevant to our current situation, as rioters are using similar tactics against us.

The chapter also notes that adversaries often struggle to respond effectively when their own tactics are turned against them, as they are accustomed to dominating through their preferred methods. Occasionally, I find myself wishing that we could dispense with conventional tactics and employ a more unorthodox approach to apprehend as many rioters as possible.

Our reluctance to do so allows them to escape and continue causing damage. To effectively counter these rioters, it is necessary to take calculated risks and issue appropriate equipment to officers. By surrounding and apprehending these individuals within the bounds of the law, we can effect a significant number of felony arrests, unmask them to facilitate identification and subsequent apprehension if they escape. 

Our greatest weakness in this context is our adherence to order. Conversely, the rioters' greatest vulnerability is their desire to maintain anonymity. If we can muster sufficient numbers, it is time to take decisive action. Recent events have prompted me to reconsider our approach.

Deon Joseph is a 28 year veteran of law enforcement in Southern California - 24 of those years working in the homeless community to create an environment conducive to change for those in recovery, as a Lead Officer. He’s been recognized for his work locally and nationally, and news stories and documentaries surrounding his work in crime fighting and community relations, featured him. www.deonjoseph.org