Credit police for professionalism

It is always a joy to watch skilled, well-trained people perform their jobs, making the difficult look effortless.

Recently I was shopping at a small, retail store in Cedar Rapids. I noticed two patrol cars outside and there were two officers in the building. Apparently, some mischief had been brewing. The officers quietly and calmly began talking to a woman who was showing some signs of a rising temper. The officers continued speaking, distracting her and avoiding a heated confrontation. It was handled so skillfully that no one in the store would know the details of the situation. A potential crime or crisis did not happen.

In a perfect world, the highest awards and commendations should go to those who turn a potential crime story or tragedy into a non-event. We don't have statistics on incidents that do not occur.

To the officers of the CRPD: Because of your skill and courage I want to thank you for: the headline not written, the cellphone video not recorded, the teenager not in custody, the spouse not injured, the gun not fired, the funeral not held.

We will never know what has been prevented. I'm glad to have had a tiny glimpse of you working your magic.

Susan Armitage

Cedar Rapids