Equal Protection Under the Law (Ha!)

Unlawful Discharge and Reckless Endangerment

An experienced veteran Bridgeport detective discharged a friend's firearm in a crowded bagel shop on 17 December.  As of today, Unlawful Discharge and Reckless Endangerment charges have not been filed and no arrest made.  A civilian would have immediately been arrested, charged and his permit would have been revoked, and firearms seized. 

Unlawful discharge of a firearm is covered by Section 53-203 of the state statutes, which reads: "Any person who intentionally, negligently or carelessly discharges any firearm in such a manner as to be likely to cause bodily injury or death to persons or domestic animals or the wanton destruction of property shall be fined not more than $250 or imprisoned not more than three months, or both."

Additionally, the law for reckless endangerment in the second degree, which is State Statute 53a-64, reads, "A person is guilty of reckless endangerment in the second degree when he recklessly engages in conduct which creates a risk of physical injury to another person."

Conviction under this misdemeanor charge carries a maximum six-month prison term, $1,000 fine or both.

Assault and Breach of Peace

Recently, a physical confrontation occurred between state police officials with no arrests made and no charges filed.  An identical event occurring recently in a civilian’s home resulted in the arrest and prosecution of both people. 

Much is made of equal protection of citizens under law.  Apparently, law enforcement personnel are something other than citizens because they seem immune from the law.